Carmelo Anthony: Why Chicago Bulls Must Say No

The Chicago Bulls do not need Carmelo Anthony.

Lies. Falsehood. Blasphemy. How could any team not want a three time All-Star and one of the game’s elite scorers?

According to league sources, Anthony wants out of Denver and has listed the Bulls and the New York Knicks as his top choices. With the Knicks having gutted their roster, in their failed pursuit of major free agents, the Bulls seem the most likely trade partner for the Nuggets.

With the ability to offer a small forward replacement in Loul Deng, along with Taj Gibson, James Johnson, and a variety of current and future first round picks, the Bulls would seem to have plenty to offer to Denver, without gutting the depth and versatility that has made them a preseason contender in the Eastern Conference.   But according to sources, the Nuggets are not interested in any trades not including Joakim Noah.

Over the course of three seasons Noah has gone through a dramatic overhaul. After a lost rookie season, which saw Noah’s teammates vote to extend a coach given suspension, Noah has transformed himself into one of the best centers in the league, averaging a double-double and anchoring the Bulls defense.

If the Bulls were to include Noah in a deal, the belief is the Nuggets would ship Anthony to the Bulls. So the offer is on the table. Do the Bulls acquire an elite scorer or do they keep their young team leader and defensive anchor?  

While Anthony may be the sexy pick, the Bulls would be making a drastic mistake trading Noah.

Joakim Noah is a not only a special player, but more importantly, a special person. He is not Dwight Howard, but he brings a special team leadership, which cannot be replaced. With Noah gone, who not only anchors the back of the defense, but who inspires the team when they are down. Carmelo Anthony has never been one to inspire.

When building a championship caliber team, leadership is every bit as much as important as scoring. Carmelo Anthony has the ability to score, like few in the league can. Trading for Anthony would be icing on the cake. Joakim Noah is the foundation of a winning team. If the Bulls lose him, they may be losing their chances at greatness.