Carmelo Anthony Reportedly Unhappy Knicks Paused Trade Talks

New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony is reportedly "frustrated" with the team's potential change of heart concerning four-team trade talks that would send him to the Houston Rockets.

On Friday, Frank Isola of the New York Daily News reported Anthony is "committed" to waiving his no-trade clause to join James Harden and Chris Paul in Houston. Yet, the Knicks are apparently having second thoughts about trading him at all after hiring Scott Perry as their new general manager.

"That's crazy," a source told Isola. "From what I understand Carmelo is under the belief that he's going to the Rockets. That's what the Knicks have been telling us; that they're trading him. I can't imagine that after all he went though last season with Phil (Jackson) he's happy with this."

The report noted speculation about New York possibly backing out of the discussions could be an effort by Perry and team president Steve Mills to create more leverage and increase the asking price. But Melo wants a quick, efficient exit from the organization rather than a "messy divorce."

Anthony, who's heading into the final guaranteed season of his current contract, can decline any trade brought to him by the Knicks. He owns an early-termination option, which could allow him to become an unrestricted free agent next summer.

So the 33-year-old 10-time All-Star selection is in complete control of his future.

Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN previously reported Anthony would be willing to accept a trade to either the Rockets or the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Houston has emerged as the most likely suitor after acquiring Paul from the Los Angeles Clippers and signing Harden to a long-term contract extension. Anthony would give them a superstar trio, which is pretty much a requirement to contend for a title in the league's "superteam" era.

Now those trade talks, which Isola noted Wednesday were at the "two-yard line," are in a stage of uncertainty while the Knicks reassess the situation.