Carmelo To Bobcats?

[igoe4ecu]

so im sitting here watching espn news and on the bottom line i keep seeing charlotte owner michael jordan leading trade talks with carmelo anthony.. i havent been able to find anything on the internet about it but what does this mean? could jordan really be trying to land melo?

[cltblkhscoach]

I didn't want to bury this on the ongoing trade thread because I thought it was big news: On the ESPN scroll, per Chris Sheridan, Michael Jordan is leading active trade talks with Denver to bring Carmelo Anthony to the Bobcats. Thoughts?

[cltblkhscoach]

You beat me to it, was just watching the same thing....given the comments LB had about Melo being the best scorer in the game after our win Tuesday night, I wouldn't doubt if it's legit. There were rumors swirling earlier in the season we were interested when Carmelo was rumored to have been wanting a trade. Depending on who we give up I could see it happening, Denver definitely has their share of scorers....but who would they want, Gerald? That makes the most sense, along with Boris. That would open up Tyrus to start and allow Carmelo to come in and fill Gerald's spot.

[igoe4ecu]

i would definately give up boris and gerald for melo, as much as i love wallace im sure we'd have to give him up, hes the only real value we have.. but i would hesitate to think melo would sign a long term deal to stay in charlotte. who knows these days though

[teej]

This just won't go away, will it? He'd be perfect, and I'm willing to give up both Crash and Jack to get him, but he's not re-signing if LB's still here.

[Scottley Crue]

Thanks for posting this. I sat down to eat lunch and turned on the App State game and just caught "...Micheal Jordan, reports Chris Sheridan" and then kept waiting for it to circle around again, but I wasn't able to catch it.

As much as this team struggles to score, we definitely can use him. And I don't think there's any doubt that this group isn't going to get it done, so making a move, especially like this, would be welcome news in my eyes. I'm thinking Gerald and Boris would be involved, for sure. I'm not even terribly concerned about Melo signing long-term...if you're going to blow things up, make it a big bang, I say. If nothing else, you get cap space at the end of the year. And quite frankly, I've seen enough of this mess. Just do it, Mike.

[Dcarnys]

I was hesitant at first with Mello in the offseason, but now im all for it.

[ohara831]

Trade whom we need to in order to get him and sign him to an extension. Then build around him. Period. Bye Crash.

[Black]

I definitely have mixed feelings about this. I would love to have Melo here, but is it worth giving up Wallace, picks, and filler for 60 games with him? I'd like to see a third team involved.

[Weezy21]

skeeeeeeeet

best case....wallace,diaw,naz...for...melo,nene
worst case....wallace, diaw, henderso...for...melo

[Fred Williamson]

I want him to sign a contract extension. If he does, we have a guarantee that LB will leave next summer because Melo HATES LB.

[polarcat]

After watching this team through 20 games, I can't figure out what our direction is, who really is our core and in the long-term picture. Each player is on for a couple of games and then off for a few games. No big man, our depth and youth gets stuck on the bench by a coach that's ego is starting to shine and not in a good way. I love Wallace, but he's been here since day one and has poured his heart out and given this city and its' fans someone to love. At this point in his career, our team just isn't getting it done with him. On most teams, he is a complimentary player, not the "go-to" guy. I'd hate to see him go, but if you can bring in a commodity like 'Melo, you do it. Plus, Boris' value is up and down like a teeter totter, and his value hasn't been this high in a looooong time --- sell high Mike!

[ND22]

Can someone post a link/tweet about this? I'm searching for stuff and all I'm getting is news that the Grizzles are in talks with Denver.

[CatNation]

interesting. hope it happens. anyone know of a Denver fan forum? realgm doesn't seem very active

[Black]

Maybe we make this trade so that we have all the power Melo possess at the trade deadline? If we dangle Melo in front of Dallas/Orlando/New York/New Jersey, we could get talent back, and force them to take on some of our terrible contracts. Not to mention a handful of draft picks that a future coach might actually appreciate.

[Black]

Can someone post a link/tweet about this? I'm searching for stuff and all I'm getting is news that the Grizzles are in talks with Denver.

Yeah, It's pretty strange that Sherridan hasn't Tweeted anything about it. Reporters are usually dying to break news like this.

[Dcarnys]

Maybe we make this trade so that we have all the power Melo possess at the trade deadline? If we dangle Melo in front of Dallas/Orlando/New York/New Jersey, we could get talent back, and force them to take on some of our terrible contracts. Not to mention a handful of draft picks that a future coach might actually appreciate.

I actually like that idea alot. Even if we dont keep him for long we got him and can get somthing big for him. Rather keep him but the idea makes sense.

[sugarfree311]

From Sheridan's newest Knicks article -

"(New York is) where he wants to be, not Jersey. But Michael Jordan is pushing to get him, too, and save the Bobcats' season," a league source with knowledge of the trade discussions told ESPN.com Friday night."

[WAM9]

I have said I wouldn't be for trading for Carmelo without an extension. I have also said that I don't want to trade Wallace.

Based on the way this season has started (and I am the eternal optimist around here) I have changed my mind completely on both fronts. Diaw and Wallace (even Henderson) is a deal I would be 100% behind!

Getting Nene would be icing on the cake but I don't really expect that to happen.

[dnbman]

I have said I wouldn't be for trading for Carmelo without an extension. I have also said that I don't want to trade Wallace.

Based on the way this season has started (and I am the eternal optimist around here) I have changed my mind completely on both fronts. Diaw and Wallace (even Henderson) is a deal I would be 100% behind!

Getting Nene would be icing on the cake but I don't really expect that to happen.

I don't know if not watching them as much this season has changed my feelings, but I'm right there with you. At the very least, we shed contracts and start over with DJ and Tyrus. If Melo doesn't sign, but can net us picks or anything else, so be it.

[ajbry]

I have said I wouldn't be for trading for Carmelo without an extension. I have also said that I don't want to trade Wallace.

Based on the way this season has started (and I am the eternal optimist around here) I have changed my mind completely on both fronts. Diaw and Wallace (even Henderson) is a deal I would be 100% behind!

Getting Nene would be icing on the cake but I don't really expect that to happen.

Sign me up for that. I'd be willing to see what a Nazr/TT/Melo/Jack/DJ lineup could do; if they still suck by season's end, well, at least it was worth a shot. Go into full rebuilding mode afterward.

[Jennings]

At the start of the season I would have never thought about trading Crash or Jack, now I think like many of us, we have hit our celling. We have to do something or we will stay in this 10 to 6th seed area until Jack and Crash have lost their trade value. I know MJ isn't content in staying where we are. We need a big time player/scorer. I thought Jack was it, but with all his TO's, I think it negates most of the points he scores. Not to mention his T's. I think/hope something happens soon. Last nights game pissed me off. Just another one of our let downs after a big win. By the way, I HATE THE C'S!! Go Cats!!!

[teej]

IF by some MIRACLE we do get Melo, he instantly becomes the absolute best player in the history of Charlotte sports.

[Dcarnys]

I think this might be the first time were seeing MJ pulling the MJ card, Finally.

[ziggy]

If this happens, I will name my my next 7 kids (male or female) Carmelo.

You have my word on that.

[Scottley Crue]

IF by some MIRACLE we do get Melo, he instantly becomes the absolute best player in the history of Charlotte sports.

Clearly, you weren't paying attention during the Dave Hoppen Era.

[BETCATS]

I dont think a lot of you realize what happens if we trade Diaw/start Tyrus.
Tyrus is the most important bench player we have and we need his energy off the bench. Him and Shaun Livingston determine if we get bench production or not.

What would our lineup + our depth even look like if we did trade for Melo? Besides Gerald who else would have to go? Who do we replace the small rotation players we lose with?

And I know Carmelo plays a little more defense that he was known for playing a couple years back but how would a demanding defensive coach like Larry get results with him?

[ohara831]

If he gets Melo, the conspiracy theorists will start up. Because the NBA is taking over NO. If MJ is then able to swing a deal to get CP3, the conspiracy discussion begins. MJ has something on Stern and is pulling it. That talk would be hilarious.

[Chef]

I don't know if not watching them as much this season has changed my feelings, but I'm right there with you. At the very least, we shed contracts and start over with DJ and Tyrus. If Melo doesn't sign, but can net us picks or anything else, so be it.

so if this does go down and we deal for a 1 year rental of melo here are some of my questions.

1. do we have anything close to what it takes to get him? ie why would denver prefer a trade without extension to us for wallace and parts vs the great deal nj could give them or even nyk's better deal? are we giving up draft picks?

2. assuming he won't sign an extension here when can we trade him to nyk or nyj? keep in mind he wants the knicks and will probably end up there. if feb is the deadline, then there is no point because we will probably be close to the top 8 in the conference and blowing it up like that makes the trade pointless. if we wait until the end of the season and trade an extended melo what would we get? something like what happened to cleveland or toronto this year? which means we would have effectively traded crash for a few late round firsts and a huge TPE. is that the value we are looking for?

3. what do we do with jax because he is going to want out the second we get rid of melo? his trade value is awful. can or does he even want to play with melo? he can be a huge problem if he becomes unhappy.

[teej]

If he gets Melo, the conspiracy theorists will start up. Because the NBA is taking over NO. If MJ is then able to swing a deal to get CP3, the conspiracy discussion begins. MJ has something on Stern and is pulling it. That talk would be hilarious.

Without MJ, Stern is just another nobody. MJ being a success as an owner is on Stern, too.

But conspiracy or not, I'll take those two. So long as they don't pull any LeBron shit to announce it.

[BIGCatBobcat]

I'm gonna call it, not gonna happen. The Knicks are in the drivers seat. Knicks trade Anthony Randolph, trade whatever they have to out to Denver, including Houston's first rounder they're gonna get for Randolph, Melo, RahRah and the kids live in Brooklyn near Beyonce and Jay, Amare, Melo and whoever the Knicks have left finish out the year 6th seed, beat somebody in the first round, sign somebody great over the offseason and are in the finals in 2012.

MJ wants him, but he respectfully, doesn't want to be in Charlotte. I think this is where the discussion is coming from. MJ putting word out there that he's trying, just to get Melo to think about it but most of the reports are NY focused.

Or I could be wrong and we trade DMac, Diop and a bucket of hammers for him.

[BETCATS]

I have yet to find one full length article about this or even with a mention of it.
If someone can prove me wrong i would appreciate any links. Have we really got this excited over a Chris Sheridan tweet?

[Black]

I have yet to find one full length article about this or even with a mention of it.
If someone can prove me wrong i would appreciate any links. Have we really got this excited over a Chris Sheridan tweet?


"That's where he wants to be, not Jersey. But Michael Jordan is pushing to get him, too, and save the Bobcats' season," a league source with knowledge of the trade discussions told ESPN.com Friday night.

http://sports.espn.go.com/new-york/nba/columns/story?columnist=sheridan_chris&id=5908902

[dnbman]

1. do we have anything close to what it takes to get him? ie why would denver prefer a trade without extension to us for wallace and parts vs the great deal nj could give them or even nyk's better deal? are we giving up draft picks?

My guess is that the price is much cheaper if he doesn't extend. Wallace might be the price straight up. The reason Denver would do it is that they get something for Carmelo if he won't agree to an extension with another team.


2. assuming he won't sign an extension here when can we trade him to nyk or nyj? keep in mind he wants the knicks and will probably end up there. if feb is the deadline, then there is no point because we will probably be close to the top 8 in the conference and blowing it up like that makes the trade pointless. if we wait until the end of the season and trade an extended melo what would we get? something like what happened to cleveland or toronto this year? which means we would have effectively traded crash for a few late round firsts and a huge TPE. is that the value we are looking for?

Can't answer all of that. It would be a gamble for sure. My guess is that we try hard to either make the team work and convince Melo to stay or plan on rebuilding, using the Melo trade to basically get out of Wallace's contract. Who knows though. We do know Jordan likes to gamble.


3. what do we do with jax because he is going to want out the second we get rid of melo? his trade value is awful. can or does he even want to play with melo? he can be a huge problem if he becomes unhappy.

Hopefully, we'd get something for Melo if we had to get rid of him. This is really the bottom line for me: if the Bobcats take on Melo with no extension, they do so because they feel something is seriously wrong with the build of our team right now. If that's the case, who cares if Jackson is gloomy or not? After this year, he only has two seasons left on his contract. There are even odds we have a lock out next year anyway.

[BlockParty]

We will know the talks have gotten extremely serious as soon as GW and/or Jack and/or whoever else it takes are suddenly a scratch just before game time. You can't risk an injury screwing up a trade that changes your franchise.

Until then...NY is in the drivers seat.

[sprtsguyshowonyoutube]

While getting Carmelo would be great .The thing that i don't get is why would want to trade for him knowing that he will not signing an a extension with the Cats?

(http://www.bobcatsplanet.com/vb/showthread.php?11881-Carmelo-To-Bobcats)

[ohara831]

I have yet to find one full length article about this or even with a mention of it.
If someone can prove me wrong i would appreciate any links. Have we really got this excited over a Chris Sheridan tweet?

The way this season is going, what else do we have to get excited about?

[ammofan]

HOLY CRAP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Everyone be sure to really cheer on G-Force tonighgt if u are going to the game. It could be his last one in CLT. But whatever.....MELOOOOOO!!!

[coachcdobbs]

Clearly, you weren't paying attention during the Dave Hoppen Era.

Funniest thing I have heard all day hahaha. Way to take a trip in the way back machine.

But seriously, if Jordan somehow lands Melo in Charlotte it would be a miracle. And seriously, giving up Crash for Melo... its not even a question. Its crash and whatever else they want. Anyone on this team is expendable for one of the top 5 players in the game.

[mrtarheel]

This season is not going as planned. Getting Melo without and extension to me means that it is Gerald, Diop and Diaw for Melo and Nene. We have to get out of one bad contract in this deal. Flip side of this is that if he doesn't stay here 17 mil is alot to bring in some players that want to be here but I would do a deadline with NY and get something back. They are rumored to be landing Mayo, which he could be our starting 2 of the future along with Gallo and maybe even Toney Douglas who shoots lights out. There will be options Melo won't be like the Dust Chip trust me on that one.

[teej]

Clearly, you weren't paying attention during the Dave Hoppen Era.

Not really, seeing as how he played 10 NBA minutes in my lifetime...with the Nets.

[ohara831]

Finally saw it on the ESPN scroll across the bottom of the screen. Come on MJ, get it done!

[spectre]

Nuggets Closing In On Melo Deal? - Bill Ingram (http://www.hoopsworld.com/Story.asp?story_id=18161)



The interesting team to surface today is the Charlotte Bobcats, previously unmentioned in rumors surrounding Anthony. Actually, they were mentioned, but always a third-party facilitator, never as the team actually receiving Anthony. There are no solid details about what the Bobcats might give up, and ESPN is running little more than a blurb in their news stream about the rumored trade, but given what the Bobcats have been willing to offer up in the past it's logical to think they would part with Gerald Wallace and Boris Diaw, two pieces that would help the Nuggets.

The real question facing Charlotte and team president Michael Jordan, however, is how much they want to pay for a player who is extremely unlikely to sign on with the team long-term. People close to Carmelo tell us he really would like to stay in Denver, but he isn't sold on the franchise going forward given the uncertain status of their roster next summer. If he is going to leave, he'd rather go to New York, which is really home for him and his wife.

As for the red-hot Knicks, they have far from given up on the idea of adding Carmelo, but still lack the all-important draft pick to make a deal with Denver work. They can send the Nuggets Danilo Gallinari and the expiring contract of Eddy Curry, but the Nuggets want a draft pick, as well, and the Knicks sent theirs to Houston. One idea being kicked around is that the Knicks could send Anthony Randolph to Houston in exchange for the pick they formerly owned, but that assumes Houston is interested in yet another of New York's project big men.



If Anthony can't earn any playing time for Mike D'Antoni, who has a reputation of making something out of players who have struggled to find their path, what on earth would the Rockets want with him?

The bottom line is the Knicks still don't have the pieces to send to Denver to land Anthony, and barring a third team suddenly emerging with an offer of help, they can't land him via trade.

But what about Charlotte? They're a long way from home for Carmelo and they play in an empty arena more nights than not. Would he be an amazing addition? Absolutely. Charlotte would immediately become a playoff team with Melo in the starting lineup. But does Michael Jordan have enough pull with Melo to convince him to come play for his team, even with their Brand Jordan tie?

That would have to be an awful lot of pull.
(http://www.hoopsworld.com/Story.asp?story_id=18161#ixzz17qp093nT)

[BobCatsFanInTx]

I was hesitant at first with Mello in the offseason, but now im all for it.I am like you Dcarnys, this may be perfect for both us and Denver. The Nuggets have plenty of scoring but they could use Crashes hustle, solid defense and rebounding and Melo's offensive prowess would be perfect for our team as it is currently constructed. In the end it may well be it is us and the Nuggets, "my second favorite team", rebuilding. At the same time with a trade that sends Crash to Denver and Melo here we may be closer to being a legit team in the East and the Nuggets may not lose much ground in the West.

[teej]

So as not to excite anyone, Ingram didn't even know about the 'Cats and Melo until I emailed him around 2:30 today.

[Chef]

This season is not going as planned. Getting Melo without and extension to me means that it is Gerald, Diop and Diaw for Melo and Nene. We have to get out of one bad contract in this deal. Flip side of this is that if he doesn't stay here 17 mil is alot to bring in some players that want to be here but I would do a deadline with NY and get something back. They are rumored to be landing Mayo, which he could be our starting 2 of the future along with Gallo and maybe even Toney Douglas who shoots lights out. There will be options Melo won't be like the Dust Chip trust me on that one.

but this is my biggest question. what would the timing of an offseason deal have to be so that we don't get screwed like cle or toronto did? we would make the playoffs with melo and trade him july 1 as an extended player to nyk. but, they could play hardball and say "this is our offer, take it or leave it" counting on the fact that melo's desire for msg is greater than his extension. does anyone know the trade rules about this kind of thing off hand?

[ohara831]

We stink so bad, Melo might never be talked into an extension. MJ better know some magic!

[BETCATS]

Im skeptical we would really need Melo to extend.
Sure it would be nice to have a superstar for the long term, but trading either of our two best players (or both) to get people interested this year would be worth the rental. Then get a shit ton of cap space (supposing we keep Nazr) which we could use on young talent would still put us in a better place than we are now. Combined with the smaller contracts that the CBA will lead to, a new coach, and some luck that a few good younger guys want to play for MJ this team might continue to grow for the next few years even without Melo.

[ammofan]

After being in TWC Arena tonight, we definatley can give up Crash. He's not good and neither is anyone else. This team is disgusting.

[DY_nasty]

Do it for the cap space.

Do it and fleece NY in a sign and trade.

Do it for the lulz.

[BobcatsAllDay]

After being in TWC Arena tonight, we definatley can give up Crash. He's not good and neither is anyone else. This team is disgusting.

Crash made me a believer last year but prior to that I was not his #1 fan b/c he is simply not a basketball player. Great athlete but basketball player he is not. Eventually that will begin to show and this year appears to be the year. Bad part about that is anybody w/ a keen basketball eye can see that, so who is calling asking for Crash?

[Proudiddy]

Richard Walker just wrote a piece on it for the Gaston Gazette... I've always like Richard and we he's on the radio he's always spoke about us alot and has always seemed to care about the direction of the franchise...

http://www.gastongazette.com/sports/charlotte-53393-column-jordan.html

Also makes a good point that Carmelo sitting out with a 'knee injury' may not be an injury at all... May be keeping him safe before dealing him.

[ohara831]

I would have been more hopeful had we kept Crash out tonight. Instead, he played, and did a disappearing act.

[dnbman]

I would have been more hopeful had we kept Crash out tonight. Instead, he played, and did a disappearing act.

Could be despondent after hearing trade rumors? Dunno.

Big picture criticism: I think our guys have to give too much every single night for us to be a marginal playoff team. I think it's taking it's toll, especially now that our expectations are so much higher.

[sprtsguyshowonyoutube]

Richard Walker just wrote a piece on it for the Gaston Gazette... I've always like Richard and we he's on the radio he's always spoke about us alot and has always seemed to care about the direction of the franchise...

http://www.gastongazette.com/sports/charlotte-53393-column-jordan.html

Also makes a good point that Carmelo sitting out with a 'knee injury' may not be an injury at all... May be keeping him safe before dealing him. The question is if we do get Carmelo will agree to resign a long turn deal with the cats if he does then make the trade now

[dnbman]

The question is if we do get Carmelo will agree to resign a long turn deal with the cats if he does then make the trade now

We'd pay dearly to make that happen. I'm just not sure it's going to work out that way. I think we get him at somewhat of a value based on no guarantee that he stays.

[sprtsguyshowonyoutube]

We'd pay dearly to make that happen. I'm just not sure it's going to work out that way. I think we get him at somewhat of a value based on no guarantee that he stays. I must say it make me excited to know that we are trying to get 1 of the 5 best player in the NBA today.I personally don't get why Carmelo or other superstar players are refusing to come to Charlotte .I mean while Charlotte is not as big LA or New york .Charlotte is a great city the owner of the Bobcats was the best player to play in the NBA and Larry Brown is one of the best 10 coach to ever coach in the nba

[BobcatsAllDay]

I think whatever team lands Melo will be in a great situation. If he stays you have an all-star, if he leaves you almost certainly have to setup a sign and trade where you get something of value in return. Don't ask for draft picks b/c whatever team he is traded to will not be selecting in the lottery.

[teej]

Larry Brown is one of the best 10 coach to ever coach in the nba

LeBron, CP3, Melo, pretty much all of that group HATE LB from when he was coaching them in the Olympics. They had jets ready to take them home so they could quit, that's how much they hated him. Only their advisors and agents could convince them to stay so as not to hurt their image.

[BobcatsAllDay]

We'd pay dearly to make that happen. I'm just not sure it's going to work out that way. I think we get him at somewhat of a value based on no guarantee that he stays.

IMO the players today are not willing to accept the bullseye that comes along w/ leading a team. That was the issue I had w/ LeBron going to MIA. In the 80s and 90s it felt as if every team had a clear "star" and they were satisfied with their role. Yes everybody needs help and that is the responsibility of the front office but I can see Carmelo saying no to the Bobcats b/c he knows the weight he will have to carry here.

[dnbman]

I must say it make me excited to know that we are trying to get 1 of the 5 best player in the NBA today.I personally don't get why Carmelo or other superstar players are refusing to come to Charlotte .I mean while Charlotte is not as big LA or New york .Charlotte is a great city the owner of the Bobcats was the best player to play in the NBA and Larry Brown is one of the best 10 coach to ever coach in the nba

The allure of living in a bigger market is based on a lot of factors: greater personal anonymity, greater professional exposure, teams with more legacy, cities with more offerings. It's a lot of things that are hard to combat. Of course, playing for a title in the modern NBA also demands power consolidation, which is easier to pull off in the bigger markets.

[BobcatsAllDay]

LeBron, CP3, Melo, pretty much all of that group HATE LB from when he was coaching them in the Olympics. They had jets ready to take them home so they could quit, that's how much they hated him. Only their advisors and agents could convince them to stay so as not to hurt their image.

Melo for sure, I don't remember CP3 being on that team. LeBron got minutes on that team but I remember him getting in trouble for tardiness fooling w/ AI so I'm sure LB held that over his head. I think LB cares enough about the legacy he leaves that he will not screw it up w/ Melo if we can land him.

[dnbman]

IMO the players today are not willing to accept the bullseye that comes along w/ leading a team. That was the issue I had w/ LeBron going to MIA. In the 80s and 90s it felt as if every team had a clear "star" and they were satisfied with their role. Yes everybody needs help and that is the responsibility of the front office but I can see Carmelo saying no to the Bobcats b/c he knows the weight he will have to carry here.

I don't think it's accepting the bullseye that's the problem. I think a lot of these players try to make something of their squads for a few years but can't get their team over the hump. Then they look back at all of the stars of the 80s and 90s-- Ewing, Stockton, Miller, etc.-- who never won a championship because they weren't Michael Jordan or weren't playing with multiple all-stars. Players just realize that window of opportunity only stays open so long. You know guys like Lebron and Melo don't want to have to pull a Payton or Malone to get a ring.

[dnbman]

LeBron, CP3, Melo, pretty much all of that group HATE LB from when he was coaching them in the Olympics. They had jets ready to take them home so they could quit, that's how much they hated him. Only their advisors and agents could convince them to stay so as not to hurt their image.

How do we know they all HATEd LB?

[Proudiddy]

LeBron, CP3, Melo, pretty much all of that group HATE LB from when he was coaching them in the Olympics. They had jets ready to take them home so they could quit, that's how much they hated him. Only their advisors and agents could convince them to stay so as not to hurt their image.

IIRC, a couple years ago when LB first came here, before we traded Carroll to the Mavs, LeBron was in town playing us, and one of the guys here was at the game right by the court and heard Lebron talking shit to the other players about Larry... He was saying something about "Carroll used to be a hell of a player, look what he did to him..."

If you're still around, please re-hash it, as it was very interesting.

[Scottley Crue]

After seeing this abomination they have the gall to call a basketball team tonight, just ask Denver what they want. I am and will remain a loyal fan, but they need to get this garbage out of my face. Putrid offense, teammates arguing on the court, complete lack of effort and energy...I'd be fine with or without a contract extension for Melo. I saw a tweet (retweeted from this feed, IIRC) suggesting Crash, TT and Henderson. Do it. Do it now. If he signs, fan-freaking-tastic. If not, then you've got cap room to sign and make moves. Or try to see whay NYC will give. They just need to change this because this group just doesn't work in any way, shape or form.

[Proudiddy]

After seeing this abomination they have the gall to call a basketball team tonight, just ask Denver what they want. I am and will remain a loyal fan, but they need to get this garbage out of my face. Putrid offense, teammates arguing on the court, complete lack of effort and energy...I'd be fine with or without a contract extension for Melo. I saw a tweet (retweeted from this feed, IIRC) suggesting Crash, TT and Henderson. Do it. Do it now. If he signs, fan-freaking-tastic. If not, then you've got cap room to sign and make moves. Or try to see whay NYC will give. They just need to change this because this group just doesn't work in any way, shape or form.

I'm right on with this strategy. I really don't care what we give up or whether Melo re-signs... Any move is a good move at this point as long as we're not taking back players like Najera or Carroll. Trade multiple guys for one (in this case an ELITE player) and hope for the best. Worst case, we save money and start over - which we'll have to do anyway because this team has maxed out their potential.

[Woodsy23]

After seeing this abomination they have the gall to call a basketball team tonight, just ask Denver what they want. I am and will remain a loyal fan, but they need to get this garbage out of my face. Putrid offense, teammates arguing on the court, complete lack of effort and energy...I'd be fine with or without a contract extension for Melo. I saw a tweet (retweeted from this feed, IIRC) suggesting Crash, TT and Henderson. Do it. Do it now. If he signs, fan-freaking-tastic. If not, then you've got cap room to sign and make moves. Or try to see whay NYC will give. They just need to change this because this group just doesn't work in any way, shape or form.

You suggest losing our 2 brightest prospects, one of which is arguably our best player for a 4 month rental??! thannt's a joke right? Crash on the other hand can go without hesitation, talk about a fall from grace. he's all talk this year. agreedwe should try n get Melo but those 2 players HAVE to be protected. plus that leaves us with Carroll as back upto Jax and Dom as backup to Diaw. please i agree with needing to make some major changes but lets not be foolish. the reason we're in this mess is because we were too trade happy in the off season. i knew at the time letting Tyson Chandler go was a huge mistake. what a player.

[Weezy21]

IIRC, a couple years ago when LB first came here, before we traded Carroll to the Mavs, LeBron was in town playing us, and one of the guys here was at the game right by the court and heard Lebron talking shit to the other players about Larry... He was saying something about "Carroll used to be a hell of a player, look what he did to him..."

If you're still around, please re-hash it, as it was very interesting.

ya i said that haha....lebron also made that joke about lexy..."i heard if that dude doesnt eat, he might die" hahah....hate lebron but loved the joke

[Woodsy23]

I'm right on with this strategy. I really don't care what we give up or whether Melo re-signs... Any move is a good move at this point as long as we're not taking back players like Najera or Carroll. Trade multiple guys for one (in this case an ELITE player) and hope for the best. Worst case, we save money and start over - which we'll have to do anyway because this team has maxed out their potential.

We've maxed out our potential as a team but TT and Hendo are nowhere near maxing out their potential and yet you suggest we trade them for a 4 month rental? talk about a knee jerk reaction jeez, its about time this franchise started thinking long term. trade anyone with value for youth and picks, use the draft to our advantage. build over time is the best way for us and that starts with TT and Hendo. Fact.

[-Ian-]

LeDiva, CP3 and Melo are all hating on LB? If I know, they hate LB because he ripped them when they're acting like a prima donna on the Olympic Team.

[Scottley Crue]

You suggest losing our 2 brightest prospects, one of which is arguably our best player for a 4 month rental??! thannt's a joke right? Crash on the other hand can go without hesitation, talk about a fall from grace. he's all talk this year. agreedwe should try n get Melo but those 2 players HAVE to be protected. plus that leaves us with Carroll as back upto Jax and Dom as backup to Diaw. please i agree with needing to make some major changes but lets not be foolish. the reason we're in this mess is because we were too trade happy in the off season. i knew at the time letting Tyson Chandler go was a huge mistake. what a player.

I'm definitely speaking from frustration of what I saw tonight and what I've seen so far, and I understand not wanting to give up Henderson or Tyrus, but I feel that if it turned out to be a rental (which it does appear so), you can put yourself in a position with cap space to get young prospects or make some deals for such. I don't dislike either guy and I'm not looking to get them out of town ASAP, but they're not the only prospects in the world. If they can get someone else in here to score the ball without losing these guys, then good...but just from my perspective, I personally would be Ok with renting Melo. I'd absolutely prefer locking him up, but I can see how having whatever space left over would be beneficial to us as well.

[110oldeast]

CP3 was not on that team and in fact one of the issues was a lack of a true pg. Team construction (it was a B team at that team), lack of time to build, and continuity were issues.

That and the fact that Melo and LBJ were ROOKIES. They were pissed about their PT, but it was a perfect storm situation.


Melo for sure, I don't remember CP3 being on that team. LeBron got minutes on that team but I remember him getting in trouble for tardiness fooling w/ AI so I'm sure LB held that over his head. I think LB cares enough about the legacy he leaves that he will not screw it up w/ Melo if we can land him.

[teej]

CP3 was not on that team and in fact one of the issues was a lack of a true pg. Team construction (it was a B team at that team), lack of time to build, and continuity were issues.

That and the fact that Melo and LBJ were ROOKIES. They were pissed about their PT, but it was a perfect storm situation.

Yeah, my bad, CP3 was not on the team. LB had issues with Bron, Melo, Wade, Amar'e, Starbury and Mek.

[Weezy21]

http://www.realgm.com/src_checktrade.php?tradeid=5761455

i know its not going to happen but god this would be great!...complete overhaul! great starting 5...weak bench for now but a 4th to 5th seed playoff team for sure!

C-Okafor/Kwame/Diop
PF-Tyrus/Brown
SF-Melo/Brown
SG-JR smith/Carrol/Livingston
PG-Paul/Livingston

[Dcarnys]

http://www.realgm.com/src_checktrade.php?tradeid=5761455

i know its not going to happen but god this would be great!...complete overhaul! great starting 5...weak bench for now but a 4th to 5th seed playoff team for sure!

C-Okafor/Kwame/Diop
PF-Tyrus/Brown
SF-Melo/Brown
SG-JR smith/Carrol/Livingston
PG-Paul/Livingston

At this point id do it.

[TheBeagle]

Im skeptical we would really need Melo to extend.
Sure it would be nice to have a superstar for the long term, but trading either of our two best players (or both) to get people interested this year would be worth the rental. Then get a shit ton of cap space (supposing we keep Nazr) which we could use on young talent would still put us in a better place than we are now. Combined with the smaller contracts that the CBA will lead to, a new coach, and some luck that a few good younger guys want to play for MJ this team might continue to grow for the next few years even without Melo. This is how I view the situation as well. Let's keep Tyrus and Nazr and they can have their pick of the rest. Having Melo here for a few months would generate huge interest in the short term and possibly make them fun to watch again. Hell, he may even help turn things around here and sneak us into the playoffs. But yeah, I also love the idea of trading away contrats for an expiring superstar contract. That's the really nice long term advantage of the deal as well. And if there's anyway to re-sign him and acquire a certain Mr. Paul, well then, that would be okay too....

[Fred Williamson]

You suggest losing our 2 brightest prospects, one of which is arguably our best player for a 4 month rental??! thannt's a joke right? Crash on the other hand can go without hesitation, talk about a fall from grace. he's all talk this year. agreedwe should try n get Melo but those 2 players HAVE to be protected. plus that leaves us with Carroll as back upto Jax and Dom as backup to Diaw. please i agree with needing to make some major changes but lets not be foolish. the reason we're in this mess is because we were too trade happy in the off season. i knew at the time letting Tyson Chandler go was a huge mistake. what a player.

um, you must be joking right? Bright prospects? our best player? tha f*ck? These guys suck like everyone else on this roster. Check some sources, our "prospects" have ZERO trade value around the league

[Toocool]

I would be willing to trade anyone, except TT to get Melo. TT is the only piece I would certainly keep. Anything else, is fine by me.

[Chef]

um, you must be joking right? Bright prospects? our best player? tha f*ck? These guys suck like everyone else on this roster. Check some sources, our "prospects" have ZERO trade value around the league

thank you. in order of who's available i would say tt and dj are the last two, everyone else is lumped at the top.

[Demon DeaCat]

You suggest losing our 2 brightest prospects, one of which is arguably our best player for a 4 month rental??! thannt's a joke right? Crash on the other hand can go without hesitation, talk about a fall from grace. he's all talk this year. agreedwe should try n get Melo but those 2 players HAVE to be protected. plus that leaves us with Carroll as back upto Jax and Dom as backup to Diaw. please i agree with needing to make some major changes but lets not be foolish. the reason we're in this mess is because we were too trade happy in the off season. i knew at the time letting Tyson Chandler go was a huge mistake. what a player.

I think you're way over-valuing Hendo. He's shown absolutely nothing to this point for him to be considered a player we should try to build around. He's shown flashes of becoming a solid rotation player but nothing more. He's certainly expendable. And Tyson wasn't that good.

I do agree with you that we should not allow our frustration to bait us into a rash decision though. What we've got clearly isn't working. I think we've all accepted that now. But even if we've decided to blow it up, I don't think the "Melo rental" strategy is the one that serves us best. We'd likely have to give up GW plus another starter and a draft pick to get him. Even if our plan was to subsequently deal him to the Knicks, what makes us think they're going to be able to put together a trade package that's reasonable for us when they've yet to be able to do so for the Nuggets? Many have even said they're ok with Melo not extending and walking at the end of the year. Let's think about what we're saying here. I know GW has struggled, but are we really prepared to just cut him loose in what would amount to a salary dump? He's not a superstar and may never again approach all-star status, but he's still a pretty good player, too good to just give away for nothing.

If we're prepared to move him, which I am, I'd much prefer to trade him for younger, cheaper talent and/or draft picks that we will actually benefit from, as opposed to a cameo-appearance from a superstar.

[Weezy21]

i dont see the big problem in trading for melo...yes we lose wallace and diaw…yes melo might leave…but this team isnt going anywhere…time to start over…and how funny would it be if we got melo now and traded him at the deadline to NJ for favors and 2 picks??

maybe i have this wrong, but wouldn’t that be four 1st rounders in 2 years?

we also have a nice young core to build around…dj,brown, tyrus, favors, henderson…plus our draft picks

get a new coach who actually plays and develops young players

its a set back but like i said, this team isn’t going anywhere!

[ohara831]

ESPN would love for him to go to NY and make it sound as though he will go no where else. But if MJ has any pull at all, I hope he starts to us it and gets Melo here. Otherwise, this season is going to waste away like the Carolina Panthers season.

[Dcarnys]

All I know is something has to be done because this is just ridiculous now.

[Proudiddy]

MJ should strong-arm Melo and make him come here and re-sign, or threaten to revoke his Team Jordan membership. After all MJ has stuck with him through, this dude better come here and commit.

[TheDorkLord]

Sounds like Melo will only end up in NY: http://sports.espn.go.com/new-york/nba/news/story?id=5912307

[DY_nasty]

Sounds like Melo will only end up in NY: http://sports.espn.go.com/new-york/nba/news/story?id=5912307
Not really: http://twitter.com/nuggetsnews/status/14082205651304448

Source told me espn piece isn't completely accurate and that melo could sign and get trade to other teams than nyk

[ammofan]

Not really: http://twitter.com/nuggetsnews/status/14082205651304448

BSPN doesnt have a clue....anything could happen. Im confident that DEN will take the best offer. Whether that is from NY, CHA or NJ idk

[Dcarnys]

BSPN doesnt have a clue....anything could happen. Im confident that DEN will take the best offer. Whether that is from NY, CHA or NJ idk

CBS is saying the same thing
http://ken-berger.blogs.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/11838893/26392070

I trust them over ESPN anyday.

[dvdbumpus]

I can only pray we can trade Jax and picks for Melo. If only! :D

[kickazzz2000]

CBS is saying the same thing
http://ken-berger.blogs.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/11838893/26392070

I trust them over ESPN anyday.

The headline says he would only accept a trade to the Knicks.

But the body of the article tells us what we already know:

1. he has no no trade clause
2. he simply wouldnt extend with anyone but the knicks (though that was disputed somewhere, on twitter or something)
3. he could be traded anywhere, the package wouldn't be that good though
4. the nuggets arent interested in what the knicks are giving


If the Knicks think they can parlay Anthony Randolph into a first round pick to include in a melo deal, more power to them. You would think they would give him something more than DNP-CD's if they wanted to get something for him.

[coldhardtruth2330]

It would take an idiot to trade Jax... Hes the best player on the team, and his skill level is heads and shoulders above all of the bobcats. Every night hes the teams leading scorer and most night leads the team in assists. He is the ONLY PLAYMAKER on the team. The start of the Celtics game he had 6 points and 5 assists in about a 7 minute span. Everytime on offense when the ball does not go thru Jax, we usually take a bad shot or turn the ball over....Why would you trade your best player when you don't have to? Also if Jax goes, who is going to play shooting guard?

[DY_nasty]

It would take an idiot to trade Jax... Hes the best player on the team, and his skill level is heads and shoulders above all of the bobcats. Every night hes the teams leading scorer and most night leads the team in assists. He is the ONLY PLAYMAKER on the team. The start of the Celtics game he had 6 points and 5 assists in about a 7 minute span. Everytime on offense when the ball does not go thru Jax, we usually take a bad shot or turn the ball over....Why would you trade your best player when you don't have to? Also if Jax goes, who is going to play shooting guard?
Have you missed all the games where Jax has shot the team out of the game, let a nobody drop 20 on us in the first quarter, disappear for the first 3 quarters only to pretend like he cares in the 4th, stop the entire offensive flow with his crappy shots, turned the ball over nonstop, cried about every single call instead of getting back on defense, and watched flat-footed as rebounds fly right through his hands?

What happened for the rest of the Celtic game? Its not the first time he's started off hot then refused to adapt to a defense thats adjusted to him. The same thing happened to him in the game against Indy. Start out 6/6 go 1/11 the rest of the night. He's played maybe 3 full four quarter games all season long and hasn't kept his mouth shut for a full 48 minutes once.

[coldhardtruth2330]

Have you missed all the games where Jax has shot the team out of the game, let a nobody drop 20 on us in the first quarter, disappear for the first 3 quarters only to pretend like he cares in the 4th, stop the entire offensive flow with his crappy shots, turned the ball over nonstop, cried about every single call instead of getting back on defense, and watched flat-footed as rebounds fly right through his hands?

What happened for the rest of the Celtic game? Its not the first time he's started off hot then refused to adapt to a defense thats adjusted to him. The same thing happened to him in the game against Indy. Start out 6/6 go 1/11 the rest of the night. He's played maybe 3 full four quarter games all season long and hasn't kept his mouth shut for a full 48 minutes once.

I've not missed a game this year, and he is by far the most talented player on the team. I dont care what anyone says, he can shoot, pass, handle the ball, defend, and is a mismatch nightmare...I seen him drop 30 on the Heat and be the best player on the floor, I seen him get a triple double against Phoenix, and I seen him come pretty close to two more triple doubles.... Crash can not shoot for nothing, and thats a fact. His offensive ability is very limited, he just puts the ball on the floor with his head down and gets an offensive foul. Gerald Wallace is the worst free throw shooter on the team, maybe in the NBA for small forwards

[DY_nasty]

I've not missed a game this year, and he is by far the most talented player on the team. I dont care what anyone says, he can shoot, pass, handle the ball, defend, and is a mismatch nightmare...I seen him drop 30 on the Heat and be the best player on the floor, I seen him get a triple double against Phoenix, and I seen him come pretty close to two more triple doubles.... Crash can not shoot for nothing, and thats a fact. His offensive ability is very limited, he just puts the ball on the floor with his head down and gets an offensive foul. Gerald Wallace is the worst free throw shooter on the team, maybe in the NBA for small forwardsokay, that settles that....

[Jennings]

Don't forget he leads the team in TO'S and T's.

[ohara831]

okay, that settles that....

Debating skills put to good use. Nicely done. I dont care what anyone says!

[Chef]

let's not let this devolve to a real gm board.

[ajbry]

Don't forget he leads the team in TO'S and T's.

Please.

He also averages 4.5 assists and his AST/TO ratio is a hell of lot more respectable than the other prominent wing player on the team. He gets turnovers because defenses actually focus on him and he's an important playmaker. He also commits some dumb turnovers, but it's not like he averages 2 assists a night or anything and is the 2nd option on offense. Usage, poor spacing, and limited offensive teammates can lend to some turnovers. Crazy, I know.

And the technicals? You realize he's tied for 4th in the league with Amare, and Melo, Rip, and Dwight Howard have more? Not exactly what I would call horrible company. (Additionally, there are 2 other Bobcats in the top 10 of technicals but I'm sure it's blasphemous for me to even bring that up).

[teej]

Please.


AJ, understand they're not rationally attacking Jack.

This is just as much trying to find a scapegoat and not wanting to admit that Crash is the main problem as it is not liking Jack. Plus, when he has that reputation, people in this, well, "incestous" (Bob Johnson's words, not mine) town, he's the first to bear the brunt of people's wrath.

Jack is one of three offensive threats on this team (DJ and Naz being the other two) and of those three is the only one who can run some semblance of an offense, be consistent and play defense. So, since we want to rag on everyone, how about we hand out criticism where it's most due. Jack has plenty of issues, but if his help showed up they'd be very much masked (last season, anyone?)...

[TheDorkLord]

I don't think any of these guys have an inside track on what will happen... but just to continue the info gathering here is the latest that Nick Borges posted this morning on the Insider section of ESPN... "Carmelo Anthony (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=1975) is not giving the Denver Nuggets (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/clubhouse?team=den) any options. The team wants to sign him to a $65 million extension, but he has declined. The team will trade him, if an extension is not signed by February. However, no team will give up players and draft picks for him if he doesn't sign that same new deal with them. All speculation has him signing with the New York Knicks (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/clubhouse?team=nyk), if he opts for free agency in the summer and now word comes that Anthony will only sign an extension with the Knicks.
ESPN.com's Chris Sheridan (http://sports.espn.go.com/new-york/nba/news/story?id=5912307) writes: "Anthony has told the Nuggets he will not sign the nearly $65 million contract extension he has been offered unless he is traded to the New York Knicks, a source told ESPN.com on Sunday. ... The New Jersey Nets (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/clubhouse?team=njn) have been holding out hope that their offer of Derrick Favors (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=4257), Troy Murphy (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?playerId=1013) and two No. 1 draft picks would be the best offer available to the Nuggets, but the news that Anthony will not agree to sign with them long-term effectively knocks them out of the bidding."
The Denver Post (http://www.denverpost.com/nuggets/ci_16843791) has their own sources on the story and there are some new tidbits and conflicting angles.
Anthony did say after the game in New York on Sunday that he doesn't think Denver will deal him to a team not on his list and that he will sign an extension once he is traded.
The Nuggets may be able to get a better package than what the Knicks are offering, if Anthony was a little more flexible, but their options are limited since Anthony is in full control of where he'll be playing in the future."

[G Wuh Wuh Wuh Wallace]

http://games.espn.go.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=36cbezr

what do u guys think about this?

[WAM9]

I think the fans would burn Portland to the ground!

[Chef]

I think the fans would burn Portland to the ground!

um yeah. the only way this doesn't result in riots is if charlotte adds alt unprotected #1 picks for 2014 through 2020 and denver gives at least 2 #1's.

[Absinthe]

He won't be coming here. New Jersey is putting together a damn good package of multiple high picks and salary relief. I think the Bobcats will make several trades, however. I think getting Billups/Anderson is more likely.

Don't be surprised if Mohammed, Diaw, G. Wallace, and Augustin are all moved for other players.

[ammofan]

He won't be coming here. New Jersey is putting together a damn good package of multiple high picks and salary relief. I think the Bobcats will make several trades, however. I think getting Billups/Anderson is more likely.

Don't be surprised if Mohammed, Diaw, G. Wallace, and Augustin are all moved for other players.

Are you just thinking this will happen or do you have some info for us?

I believe that we would want Billups tho. He played for LB in DET and he is an upgrade at the position...although DJ has been fine imo

[SWedd523]

Is he an improvement?

He averages 14 and 5
DJ averages 13 and 6

DJ has a better ORtg (115 to 108.)-----------higher is better
DJ has a better DRtg (110 to 111)-----------lower is better

DJ is 23
Chauncey is 34

DJ is getting paid $2.5mil this year
Chauncey is getting paid $13.2mil this year




Yeah, I'd rather have DJ

[Absinthe]

Are you just thinking this will happen or do you have some info for us?

I believe that we would want Billups tho. He played for LB in DET and he is an upgrade at the position...although DJ has been fine imo

No, I'm not some insider. Larry Brown does not like Augustin. Larry Brown has also commented that his team isn't listening to him. Trades will happen.

Wallace will be dealt before Jackson because Jackson is the best offensive player on hte team. He can create shots. The feeling within the organization is that Gerald Wallace has regressed and he's one or two more concussions away from having to retire due to risk of a more serious injury. Not to mention that the two players make one another redundant on this team. If you would have asked me who Charlotte would be holding onto last season I would have said Crash. This year? Jackson and it's not even close.

Diaw was almost traded to Utah if you recall. They've been shopping him for a while now. They need to trade him, if for nothing else, to give Tyrus more minutes.

The big problem with this team is the center and point guard spots and the fact that either Jackson or Crash has to go.

Charlotte could definitely trade for Anderson/Billups. They could also still hold onto Augustin if they choose to do so. Denver has absolutely no interest in Augustin because they have Ty Lawson.

Let's say Charlotte swings something like Crash/Diaw to Denver for Billups/Anderson. I do that trade in a heartbeat and so would Denver. They fill a void that Melo will leave and they get to groom Lawson.

Ideally, I would like to see Charlotte get Iggy from Philly. Then they could trot out a line up of:

Billups
Iggy
Jackson
Tyrus
Anderson

I'm racking my brain trying to come up with a way for this to happen, however.

[ohara831]

One thing for sure. Charlotte stinks so bad right now, Melo would just as soon stay in Denver. We stink, and to get him would require us to give up our least stinky players. One rose in a big pile of dog poop still smells like dog poop.

[LiquidWayno]

http://www.bobcatsbreak.com/?p=3309 - Neil Diamond's thoughts on a Wallace-Anthony Trade

[BETCATS]

He won't be coming here. New Jersey is putting together a damn good package of multiple high picks and salary relief. I think the Bobcats will make several trades, however. I think getting Billups/Anderson is more likely.

Don't be surprised if Mohammed, Diaw, G. Wallace, and Augustin are all moved for other players.
We wont trade Augustin unless it is for a serious upgrade. I dont think Larry has as much pull in the front office as he did last season. We have a roster filled with players that Larry wanted. DJ is one of MJ's guys and Larry must listen to MJ. This is probably Larry's last year and DJ is seen as part of the future; he wont be going anywhere.