Knicks Trade Rumors: Pros, Cons Of Not Trading Carmelo Anthony

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Dec 25, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) blocks a shot by by Boston Celtics forward Jonas Jerebko (8) during the first half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports /

Con: Defensive Inconsistency

Carmelo Anthony put forth an admirable defensive effort during the 2015-16 NBA regular season. It’s understandable if a third consecutive season without a postseason appearance rattled his confidence, but there’s no excuse for what’s transpired in 2016-17.

The New York Knicks have been awful on defense, and while it isn’t any one player’s fault, Anthony hasn’t done enough to help.

Thus far in 2016-17, the Knicks have a defensive rating of 110.2 with Anthony on the court—the second-worst mark of any player on the team. When Anthony comes off the court, the Knicks have a defensive rating of 103.4.

Not only is that a difference of 6.8 points per 100 possessions, but New York’s best defensive rating has been accumulated when Anthony hasn’t been on the court.

Anthony isn’t the only player to blame for the Knicks’ defensive inconsistency. He’s a part of the problem, however, and his choosing to remain in New York should come with a commitment to defend at a higher level.

If Anthony and Jackson can only come to one mutual agreement, it should include Anthony defending with a more consistent level of effort and intensity.

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