Could Carmelo Anthony make surprising return to New York?

The New York Knicks enter the NBA offseason hoping to bring a star to Madison Square Garden. They could also be targeting a potential reunion with future Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony.

The Knicks have already been connected to Russell Westbrook and Chris Paul, with president of basketball operations Leon Rose swinging for the fences in his first offseason. While acquiring a star point guard seems to be Rose’s top priority, he also might have a reunion in mind for the Knicks.

The Knicks targeted Anthony last offseason, before their pursuit of Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant fell short. With Rose now in charge and looking to make a splash, rumors are already buzzing about Anthony’s potential return.

According to SportsNet New York’s Ian Begley, some within the Knicks organization already view Anthony as a free agency target. If the team acquires Paul or Westbrook, the odds of signing Anthony will spike significantly.

Anthony joined the Knicks during the 2010-’11 season, coming over in a blockbuster trade with the Denver Nuggets. He instantly found a home in New York, becoming a star in the Mecca of basketball during his tenure.

Across seven seasons, Anthony averaged 24.7 points and seven rebounds per game. He was an NBA All-Star from 2011-’17 in New York, earning All-NBA honors in 2012 and 2013. The 6-foot-8 forward also finished as the NBA’s scoring champion in 2013, averaging 28.7 points per contest.

During that stretch, the Knicks reached the NBA playoffs three times. However, Anthony could only lead the team past the first round once. Without enough help around him, the Knicks struggled in his final years with the team.

After playing in just 10 games during the 2018-’19 season, Anthony shined with the Portland Trail Blazers this past year. He proved to be an effective scorer, averaging 15.4 points per game. He received an incredible ovation in his return to Madison Square Garden.

If the Knicks can land a true star, it would make sense for Anthony to return. He always loved New York and playing for his former agent would be a unique opportunity. Entering his age-36 season, this could be a fitting end to Anthony’s career.