NBPA's Roberts slams Knicks again over Melo treatment

For the third time in a little over two months, the National Basketball Players Association has taken issue with the New York Knicks' actions - this time again over Phil Jackson's treatment of Carmelo Anthony.

NBPA executive director Michele Roberts said she has been in contact with NBA commissioner Adam Silver over Jackson's suggestion Friday that Anthony would "be better off somewhere else."

"We voiced with the commissioner today our view on the inappropriate comments by Knicks president Phil Jackson," Roberts said in a statement. "If the players cannot, under threat of league discipline, speak openly about their desire to be employed elsewhere, we expect management to adhere to the same standards. The door swings both ways when it comes to demonstrating loyalty and respect."

Jackson's candid comments were indeed surprising given that Anthony remains under contract with the Knicks for at least another season.

Roberts and the players association raised concerns about the Jackson-Anthony feud in February, urging the two sides to sit down and talk. The day before, Roberts had criticized the Knicks over the Charles Oakley fiasco at Madison Square Garden.

Jackson's comments might have also hurt his leverage with Anthony on the trade market. Rumors swirled after early trade reports surfaced that Jackson would be willing to take a loss on dealing his franchise player - something that would be sure to raise even more ire among Knicks fans.

With the players union regularly criticizing what was once the NBA's flagship franchise, and Jackson alienating stars and possibly youngsters alike, even the bright lights and magnetism of New York City may not be enough for the Knicks to be relevant as a player destination for some time.