Anthony also reportedly received a no-trade clause in his contract. Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Carmelo Anthony gave the New York Knicks a hometown discount.
Multiple media outlets reported Tuesday night that the star forward’s new deal is not for the maximum money allowed under the NBA’s collective-bargaining agreement.
Anthony’s five-year, $124 million contract is $5 million below the maximum he could have received, giving the Knicks extra cash to pursue additional pieces.
Anthony also reportedly received a no-trade clause in his contract. According to the New York Daily News, the only other NBA players with no-trade clauses are Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant, San Antonio Spurs forward Tim Duncan, Brooklyn Nets forward Kevin Garnett and Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki
According to ESPNNewYork.com, Anthony can opt out of his contract following the fourth year, potentially allowing him to become a free agent again in the summer of 2018.
Anthony will make $22,458,000 in the 2014-15 season, and he will receive only a small raise the following season. By not giving Anthony the full allowable salary hike, the Knicks hope to chase top free agents next summer, when players such as guard Rajon Rondo and forward Kevin Love could be on the market.
