Daily Knicks
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3 former Knicks who could return to New York in 2022 free agency

By Jordanna Clark

NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 04: Carmelo Anthony #7 of the New York Knicks reacts after hitting a three pointer against the Sacramento Kings during the first half at Madison Square Garden on December 4, 2016 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 04: Carmelo Anthony #7 of the New York Knicks reacts after hitting a three pointer against the Sacramento Kings during the first half at Madison Square Garden on December 4, 2016 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /
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New York Knicks, Carmelo Anthony
Carmelo Anthony, New York Knicks. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

1: Carmelo Anthony

This is the one. Carmelo Anthony was supposed to get his first ring in 2021-22 with the Los Angeles Lakers, but we all know how that turned out. If he and the Lakers don’t agree to an extension, he’ll be on the market as an unrestricted free agent.

There’s been talk about him making his way back to New York, but it wouldn’t be in a limited role so that he could retire with the team that he spent six and a half seasons with. In Los Angeles, Melo averaged 13.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1 assist in 69 games while shooting 44.1% from the field and 37.5% from the 3-point line.

He was one of the high points of the Lakers’ otherwise disappointing year, so it’s evident that he still has gas left in his tank. Melo started in every game that he played in for the Knicks from 2010 to 2017, but that wouldn’t be the case if he were to return.

As he did in LA, Melo would provide valuable minutes off the bench. That isn’t all, though. He knows what it’s like to be the “star” under the bright lights, so he’d be the perfect guide for RJ Barrett, as well as the team’s other younger players. New York already has Gibson, sure, but Melo would bring an entirely different element (back) to the Knicks.

He could decide to re-sign with the Lakers and stay with his good friend LeBron James, which would likely be one of his final attempts to get the ring that he deserves. But at the same time, it’d be wise for him to leave Los Angeles if he wants to win an NBA title.

And no, New York doesn’t have a shot to win a title in the near future, so him signing with the Knicks would likely signal the end of his career.

It feels like it’s been an eternity since he last suited up for New York, but it’s been five years. Since then, he’s seriously contemplated retirement, but got a second chance with the Portland Trail Blazers.

Melo still has more left to give, and him signing with the Knicks would be a full-circle moment, but if his main goal is to win a ring, he won’t end up back in New York this offseason.