I know most of you are sick of Melo talk, but I just wanted to add my two cents on the topic since I was overseas when all this was going down.

First of all, the proposal sucked, and thank god it fell threw.

Having said that, I just want to point out that the acquisition of Carmelo, without retaining Lopez, Favors, and Harris, would make us a mediocre team fighting for home court at best; for years!  

The only reason I would make an ill advised trade for Carmelo, would be if I was certain that Chris Paul was next.  A team of Lopez, Melo, and Paul could fight for a championship.  THAT, I believe.  However, without Chris Paul the Nets marginally improve, and no longer have a bright and flexible future.

It is for this reason that I believe the Nets should forget about Carmelo, and keep their eyes and ears on what is going on down in New Orleans.  I actually think that a Chris Paul-led Nets team would not only be better than a Melo one, but would have a much better future.

Chris Paul is definitely one of the best PG's in the league.  Furthermore, he brings a lot to the table unlike his one dimensional counterpart Melo.  He can hit the 3 off of Brook double teams, penetrate and dish to our array of 3 point shooters, penetrate and score ala Devin, run the fast break like a genius throwing lobs to athletic freaks, get in those passing lanes, and lead the team.  In addition, a PG of his caliber makes it much easier to sign free agents.

I understand that currently, everything APPEARS to be fine and dandy in New Orleans.  Chris Paul may never come to NJ, but all I'm saying is UNLESS he does.. this team needs to remain untouched.  The ultimate goal here is to be the best team in the league.  Carmelo and Brook will NEVER become that.  Chris Paul with a decent team COULD do that.  Brook and Favors have the POTENTIAL to do that after Kobe, Lebron, Wade, and company begin to age.  I'd rather take a risk on possibly becoming dominant down the line, instead of mortgaging our future knowing we'll never exit the 2nd round.

I vote to keep the team as it is, keep an eye out for a Chris Paul trade demand, and not entertain any trades for Melo unless we can keep the core and balance of the team together.