Report: Melo planning to stay with Knicks past trade deadline
Sorry Phil, Melo apparently isn't planning on going anywhere anytime soon.
Carmelo Anthony reportedly intends to ride out at least the remainder of the season with the New York Knicks.
"As of right now, Carmelo Anthony's intention, sources tell me, is to remain in New York," Adrian Wojnarowski of The Vertical said Saturday, later adding: "The Knicks have not brought anything to his group that would inspire them to really want to waive this no-trade clause."
Related: Melo says 'I never thought I would be anywhere' but New York
It's believed the team has been shopping Anthony, with the Los Angeles Clippers, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Boston Celtics among the clubs that have shown interest. That's changed, though.
"Most of the teams who had had interest in him are looking in other directions right now, and expect Melo to remain in New York, at least for the rest of the season," Wojnarowski added.
He also said the Clippers, who were reportedly involved in discussions to acquire Melo, may regroup and try to make a run at the 32-year-old around June's draft or when free agency begins July 1.
Related: Melo says constant trade rumors 'testing me as a human being'
Anthony, who has about $54 million over two years left on his deal with the Knicks (with a player option on the final season), has previously stated he'd only waive his no-trade clause if New York decides to rebuild, and he'd only agree to go somewhere that's right for his family.
The star forward's had to reconsider his future with the organization because Phil Jackson has reportedly been trying to get rid of him. However, it was reported a few weeks ago that the Knicks president's efforts to run Melo out of town have only strengthened the New York native's desire to stay put.
Team owner James Dolan recently said he's going to honor Jackson's contract, which, like Anthony's, runs through 2018-19, so the two could be stuck together for a while in the Big Apple despite their differences.
Melo was selected as a replacement for the injured Kevin Love in the All-Star Game and is set to make his 10th appearance in the exhibition contest Sunday.
The trade deadline is Feb. 23.
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