New York Knicks trade rumors 2016: Carmelo Anthony to the Celtics?

(REUTERS/Mike Segar)New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony is seen in this photo.

If success remains distant to the New York Knicks this 2016-17 National Basketball Association (NBA) season, maybe it is time to end their relationship with Carmelo Anthony. An interested team in "Melo" could be the Boston Celtics. 

Anthony would be more than the "impact player" the Celtics are looking for. He might be the last piece they need to stage a successful comeback to the NBA Finals and compete for their 18th banner. 

However, trying to nab Anthony from the Knicks is a tall task, not just for the C's but for any team that will try. The 32-year-old has a no-trade clause in his contract, which means only he has the authority to make a deal happen.

As of the moment, there are no signs that Anthony wants to leave the Big Apple. But if this season is turning out to be a bust for the Knicks, then perhaps he may finally request for an exchange that sends him to a contending squad and Boston is one. 

For the last two seasons, the Celtics have been scratching the surface. But after a few impactful moves in the off-season, they are considered a legitimate threat in the league. 

A Big Three of Anthony, Isaiah Thomas and Al Horford has a strong chance of giving teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Toronto Raptors a difficult time in the Eastern Conference. 

However, if the Celtics are pursuing Anthony, a massive sacrifice must be made.

In a suggestion, the Celtics could send Jae Crowder, Jonas Jerebko, Amir Johnson and a first-rounder to the Knicks for Anthony. 

For now, there is a possibility the Knickerbockers rebuff this, especially with the roster adjustments they had in the off-season. But as mentioned, if this campaign starts to fail, then there is a chance this is considered, gets done and then begin rebuilding. 

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