NBA Rumors: Could a Monta Ellis for Carmelo Anthony Deal Work for Golden State?

The 2010-11 edition of the Golden State Warriors should be an improved version over last season's model, but if the new owners really want to show how dedicated they are to winning, why not explore a trade for Carmelo Anthony?

Anthony has made it clear that he no longer wants to be a part of the Denver Nuggets, and the Warriors are one of the few teams who can actually offer Denver attractive pieces for Anthony.

Golden State has discussed the possibility of trading shooting guard Monta Ellis in the past, and what better time than now to offer Ellis and forward Brandan Wright for Anthony?

Denver would receive a player to offset the loss of Anthony's scoring in Ellis, and a young player with tons of post potential in Wright.

Even if Ellis and Wright are not enough to tempt the Nuggets, Golden State can consider adding another player like Louis Amundson for good measure.

Ellis has developed a loyal following during his time in the Bay Area and many would hate to see him leave, but Anthony gives the team a chance to realize their goals much sooner.

Right now the Warriors are a borderline playoff team, but with Anthony on the roster they would be a solid bet to make it, and with a little defense the Warriors could possibly challenge for one of the top four seeds.

Reggie Williams is a suitable replacement for Ellis, and his 6'6" frame would give the Warriors' backcourt more of a traditional look. Additionally, Williams may be just as good a scorer as Ellis, and he's certainly more efficient.

Williams doesn't have to dominate the ball to be effective, and during his brief time last season Williams demonstrated that he could get his points from the perimeter or penetrating the lane.

A potential lineup of Stephen Curry, Williams, Anthony, Andris Biedrins, newcomer David Lee, and Dorrell Wright as the first man off the bench would rival most of the six-man rotations in the Western Conference.

New Warriors' coach Keith Smart still must instill a defensive mentality to the team, and Anthony has never had the reputation as a particularly strong defensive player.

But, the opportunity to play in a high-octane offense—with bright young talent such as Curry, Lee, and Williams—could be attractive to Anthony.

New Jersey, New York, and Chicago were thought to be Anthony's primary suitors, but an earlier deal with the Nets fell through and Chicago is not likely to part with Joakim Noah.

New York remains on the table, but what do they have on their roster to offer Denver that Golden State couldn't match?

The Knicks would be reluctant to trade Anthony Randolph and Danilo Gallinari, and even if they did Ellis and Wright are definitely comparable talent.

I'm not sure if Anthony is even on the Warriors' radar, but if the team was interested, there is a good chance that Denver would be willing to listen.

It's very rare when a franchise gets the opportunity to completely make themselves over in the way the Warriors have. New owners, new coach, new roster, and the chance for a bright new future.

Why not take the evolution one step further and add a player that could help change the fortunes of the franchise immediately?

The playoffs are only a dream right now for the Warriors, although they are painfully close, but with Anthony in the fold the dreams could turn into reality.