Carmelo Anthony Trade Speculations: Do the New Jersey Nets Still Have a Shot?

With the NBA trade deadline fast approaching, it appears the Nets have put their name back into the Carmelo Anthony sweepstakes. 

The Nets and Nuggets have been talking for the last week, a complete 360 from their owner's previous statement that he was pulling the team out of the running for Anthony's talents. 

Nets owner Mikhail Prokhorov in January: "Really, I am not happy with the way the deal has gone until now."  It has taken too long, it has been played out in public, and I'm certain it has taken a toll on the players." 

Carmelo's recent stretch of high-scoring games must have changed the Nets mind. 

The main question now is whether Anthony would sign an extension if traded to New Jersey. 

Anthony seems intent on playing in New York and only New York.  The fact the Nets are not a playoff team will also hurt it's chances of Anthony playing there. 

However, the Nets have the most appealing trading pieces in the eyes of the Nuggets. 

Nets first-round pick Derrick Favors would have to be included in the deal, and New Jersey also has multiple first-round picks to trade. 

The Knicks have recently backed off in their pursuit of Anthony, possibly opening the door for the Nets. 

The Nets must be willing to part with a great deal, as Denver's asking price for Anthony is very high. 

But the chance to acquire a player of Anthony's quality might be too enticing for New Jersey to pass up. 

Anthony has not openly said he will sign an extension if traded to New Jersey as he has with other teams.  

New Jersey's new stadium opening in Brooklyn would be a great conversation starter to try and convince Anthony to sign that extension. 

Anthony would certainly fill the seats, and although not as prestigious as Madison Square Garden, Carmelo could still be king of New York's "other" team. 

Melo also seems to be tiring of all the trade rumors.  Earlier in the week Anthony "tipped his hat to himself," congratulating himself on how he has handled the pressure of the trade rumors. 

But he admits it's a strain always seeing new rumors. 

"I turn on the TV, and I turn it right off because it's always a new team, a new rumor," Anthony said. 

New Jersey is not the favorite, but these two factors certainly make them an option. 

If the Nets and Nuggets make a deal, Carmelo may be willing to sign an extension and end all the drama the has followed him since "MeloWatch" began.