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Report: Anthony serious about Chicago
Alan is an expert gambling writer who works as one of the chief editors for Basketball Insiders. He has been covering online gambling and sports betting for over 8 years, having written for the likes of Sportlens, Compare.bet, The Sports Daily, 90min, and TopRatedCasinos.co.uk. His particular specialisms include US online casinos and gambling regulations, and soccer and basketball betting. Based in London, Alan holds an MA in English Literature and is a passionate supporter of Chelsea FC.
All posts by Alan DraperUpdated4 hours ago on April 25, 2024
New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony has been doing research on the city of Chicago as he approaches the deadline to exercise the opt-out clause in his contract, according to ESPNNewYork.com.
Anthony has reportedly spoken to at least one high-profile person who lives in Chicago about what it is like to be famous there.
The Chicago Bulls are one of the teams Anthony is considering if he decides to become a free agent July 1. He has until Monday to inform the Knicks if he plans to opt out of the final year of his contract. Anthony indicated throughout this past season he plans to test free agency.
Likewise, the Bulls have reportedly conducted their own research of Anthony recently. Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau has contacted some of Anthony’s former coaches to ask about him, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
ESPN reported in March that Anthony spoke to Bulls center Joakim Noah during All Star weekend about what it is like playing for Thibodeau. Noah reportedly used the conversation as a recruiting pitch to Anthony.
Anthony is also reportedly considering the Houston Rockets and Dallas Mavericks as possible free agency destinations. In addition, the Miami Heat are exploring options to see if they might pursue the seven-time All-Star.
In recent weeks, Knicks president Phil Jackson has met with Anthony to try to persuade him to play out the final year of his contract and put off free agency for a year.
The Knicks can give Anthony a maximum deal of five years and $129 million. However, the most other teams can offer Anthony is four years and $96 million.
