Knicks Rumors: Carmelo Anthony Under Increased Pressure After Jeremy Lin Report

As if the pressure already upon Carmelo Anthony was not great enough, it is nothing compared to what he is going to face next season.  

We are talking about a guy who arrived to the rabid and massive fanbase of New York as a superstar who the Knicks sent a boatload of talent to land and then later became the rumored reason that head coach Mike D'Antoni became a former coach. 

Well, rumors are placing Anthony in the middle of another Knick moving on. Only this isn't just another Knick; this is international phenomenon Jeremy Lin.

In this report by ESPN's Ian O'Connor, Anthony had no desire to play with Lin. O'Conner:

"

"Melo didn't want Lin back, I do know that," said one source who has extensive dealings with the Knicks and their players. "Everybody in that locker room wanted Lin back except Melo and J.R. Smith."

"

It is important to note that information arrives to the press from sources for a myriad of reasons, and not all of them are for exposing the truth. It is possible that Anthony didn't feel this way at all—just as it is possible he had nothing to do with D'Antoni leaving. 

However, in the high-profile world of athletics, fans' understanding for situations can be directly related to performance, and in this case, Melo better hope he has a fantastic season. 

There are now two serious reports that, when put together, point to the fact that Anthony is calling the shots in New York. This puts the pressure on Anthony to succeed at a nearly unmatched level. 

If the Knicks struggle next year, whether Anthony plays well or not, there will be a line of fans rushing to place the blame on Anthony. Melo could have his best season yet, but if New York is having another mediocre year, the frustration is still going to be heaped on Anthony due to these reports.

With this perception out there, Melo has essentially taken on the burden of star player and GM. That is a lot for anyone to handle—in any city, let alone the passionate and populated New York. 

Of course, if the Knicks go out and succeed—forget about it—Anthony will be the king of the Big Apple, and if they happen to win a championship, he will be an eternal legend. 

Until any of this happens, however, Anthony will have to deal with the overwhelming burden of being the franchise's face for the outlet of whatever emotion the fans are feeling.

And with this roster?

Good luck, Mr. Anthony. You're going to need it.