Phil vs. Carmelo

Earlier today Phil Jackson, the Knicks' President, had a press conference that marked the conclusion of his third season as the architect for a mediocre Knicks' team. Mediocre is kind - they're 80-166 under Phil's watch. Every time Jackson speaks with the media, he provides the New York City tabloids with an array of ammo that is then shot right back in his direction. Today, well, it was no different.

Jackson was asked about Carmelo Anthony's future with the Knicks, to which he responded "We have not been able to win with him on the court. He would be a player better off somewhere else."

At the surface, this seems like another asinine remark from the Knicks' President. However, I agree with him. He may not have handled it the right way, but nonetheless his message is spot on. Here's why:

Having a player of Carmelo's caliber, the Knicks should be embarrassed with the product they have put out on the court over the last handful of seasons. When Melo signed his five-year max-money contract, he essentially handcuffed the Knicks, forcing them to pay a player superstar money. The only problem is that Melo is no superstar. The cherry on top is that under his current contract, Carmelo has a no-trade clause. He controls who he plays for and whether or not the Knicks can trade him. Since he has never shown the desire to be traded, Jackson orchestrated a situation that might drive Anthony out of town which is precisely what Phil and company want. They have a blossoming star in Kristaps Porzingis and at this point, entering his third season, it would be better off to let him be the alpha. Carmelo would be doing nothing but stunting the Latvian's growth.

Make a trade prior to the draft? Maybe. The Knicks certainly aren't selling when Melo's stock is at it's peak. In fact, they're probably three years too late. It is time to move on from Melo. He was holding on for dear-life, hoping he would be a Knick for life. Phil Jackson just opened the door, it's now only a matter of time before he kicks him out.