J.R. Smith on Knicks’ treatment of Carmelo Anthony: ‘Unfair and unjust’
Carmelo Anthony #7 of the New York Knicks looks on from the bench against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Madison Square Garden on Friday, Nov. 13, 2015 in New York City. Credit: Jim McIsaac
OAKLAND, Calif. — Former Knick J.R. Smith contended on Saturday that he hasn’t specifically discussed with friend and ex-teammate Carmelo Anthony whether or not he will waive his no-trade clause rather than continue to butt heads with Knicks president Phil Jackson. But Smith made it clear that he believes Anthony has been treated unprofessionally regarding Jackson’s persistent public criticism.
“I haven’t spoken to [Anthony] on the topic, but I’m sure he does feel some type of way about how he’s being treated,” Smith said during the Cavaliers’ media session before Game 2 of the NBA Finals Sunday night at Oracle Arena.
“It’s really unfair and unjust. But I’m not on that team and I’m not in that situation, so I really don’t want to speak too much on it. I’ve got bigger things going on in the NBA Finals. But I hope for the best for him. Melo is a very tough guy, and he’ll figure it out.”
Greg Logan has worked for Newsday since 1982 covering a wide array of sports and events, currently including the Brooklyn Nets beat.
