The New York Knicks are reportedly "getting closer" to opening up trade talks for forward Carmelo Anthony, according to Bleacher Report​ .

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The rumor came up as Anthony was said to striving hard to persuade former NBA MVP Kevin Durant to sign with the Knicks when the latter hits free agency next offseason.

 If the Knicks decide to trade Anthony, it will be seen as signal of a rebuilding effort.

However, if Anthony remains a Knick, the team would be expected to nab veteran stars like Durant for a run at an NBA title.

According to Stephen Smith of ESPN, Durant is considering signing with the Knicks.

To add  Durant, coach Phil Jackson will have to beat out a number of teams for the services of the  Oklahoma City​ Thunder superstar forward.

Reports indicate that the Knicks' two biggest competitors for Durant are his current team, the Thunder, and the one form his hometown, the Washington Wizards.

Durant could make more money playing for the Knicks due to the endrosements New York could bring to him.

However, the lure of playing for the Wizards is very strong for Durant since he was born in Washington D.C. 

In fact, the Wizards even hired his former assistant coach at Montrose Christian Academy, David Adkins, as a player development assistant.

Durant has always maintained that he wants to return the Thunder.

Another serious consideration that Durant has is the need to share ball possession.

Wth the Thunder, he had always competed with Russell Westbrook for the ball; and with the Knicks,  the competition will ome from the person recruiting him--Anthony.

The Miami Heat is also making noise about its desire  to sign Durant, according to CBS Sports, and could be an attractive option to someone wanting to win a championship now. 

Imagine a starting five of Hassan Whiteside at center, Chris Bosh  at power forward, Durant at small forward, Dwyane wade at shooting guard and Goran Dragic at point guard, and one could not certainly rule out the Heat.​ 

Tagscarmelo anthony, NBA Trade Rumors, Kevin Durant