New York Knicks: Designing updated Carmelo Anthony trade to Cavaliers

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CLEVELAND, OH – FEBRUARY 23: Derrick Williams #3 of the Cleveland Cavaliers puts pressure on Carmelo Anthony #7 of the New York Knicks during the first half at Quicken Loans Arena on February 23, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Knicks 119-104. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /

The Trade: Option 1

Before you stomp and complain that the New York Knicks don’t need Kevin Love, understand that this is as rewarding of an outcome as New York is going to find. Love’s contract is unfavorable, but getting the Nets’ unprotected first-round draft pick is undeniably appealing.

Even if Love doesn’t elevate New York to the playoffs, the Knicks could potentially end up up with two Top 10 draft picks—or even Top 5—come 2018.

Some may question if Cleveland would give up the Nets’ pick in this scenario, and that’s certainly a fair concern. It’s worth finding out, however, as Cleveland would be asking the Knicks to take on three more years of Love’s massive contract.

This is a long shot, but it’s something that the Knicks should push for knowing that they have less to gain in the shot-term than Cleveland.

As for Love, he would be the elite rebounder whom Kristaps Porzingis would benefit greatly from playing with. Willy Hernangomez could check that box, but Love and Porzingis would form a dynamic offensive tandem with excellent 3-point shots and underrated post games.

Due to the fact that Cleveland will be hesitant to part with the Nets’ pick, and the fact that Love is somewhat redundant, this trade isn’t very likely.

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