The New York Knicks have lost seven of their past eight games, and one of the biggest reasons for that has been the shooting slump of star small forward Carmelo Anthony. Melo managed only one point against the Charlotte Bobcats two games ago, but that may have to do with a multitude of injuries.

UPDATE: Tuesday, Jan. 31, 7:06 p.m. ET by Ryan Rudnansky

Looks like Carmelo Anthony is going to give it a go tonight against the Chicago Bulls.

Tweeted Al Iannazzone of Newsday:

UPDATE: Tuesday, Jan. 31, 11:20 p.m. ET by Donald Wood

The New York Knicks are in a tailspin right now, and they need all hands on deck if they want to stop the bleeding. The news this morning is that star scorer Carmelo Anthony tested his ankle and will be a game-time decision against the Chicago Bulls.

Knicks insider Marc Berman from the New York Post is reporting on Twitter:

The Knicks flat-out need ‘Melo in the lineup, and they need him scoring. The team has fallen apart around him and the struggles will continue if Anthony can’t play tonight.

While having him test the ankle is a good sign, guard your optimism because New York may try to protect their investment by sitting him again.

 

UPDATE: Monday, Jan. 30 at 4:30 p.m. EST by Richard Langford

Earlier in the day it was reported that Melo was doubtful for the Knicks game on Tuesday against the Bulls. It now appears as if someone forgot to tell that to Mr. Anthony. 

Just because it is his goal to play on Tuesday it certainly doesn't mean he will play. It is a good sign though that he is healthy enough to contemplate it. 

 

UPDATE: Monday, Jan. 30 at 1:40 p.m. EST by Richard Langford

Anthony's immediate paying future is not looking good. Knicks beat writer for the New York Times Howard Beck revealed Anthony's less than promising chances for availability on Tuesday when the Knicks host the Detroit Pistons. 

New York will then have a day off before hosting the Bulls on Thursday. 

Anthony is currently nursing thumb, wrist and ankle ailments. The Knicks could certainly use him when they take on the Miami Heat tonight, but indications are that he will sit the game out. According to Ira Winderman of the South Florida SunSentinel, Carmelo won't be suiting up on Friday night.

In addition to that, Howard Beck of the New York Times is reporting that Anthony will also miss the Knicks' game against the Houston Rockets on Saturday, according to comments made by under-fire head coach Mike D'Antoni.Being without its star player is the last thing New York needs at this point, but it is abundantly clear that Carmelo is not himself right now. Perhaps a little rest will go a long way and ultimately be a good thing for the Knicks over the long run.

Anthony has been trying to fight through the pain, but it has ultimately become too much for the four-time NBA All-Star, according to Marc Berman of the New York Post.

Continue to check this article in the coming days for updates on Anthony's injuries and whether he will be able to return on Tuesday against the Detroit Pistons.