The Nets don't think they are close to trading for Carmelo Anthony, but they do think they're making progress despite what some, like Chris Sheridan, are saying...that 'Melo "will not sign an extension with New Jersey" even though they "believe they are in it." In coverage late Thursday, several reporters wrote of more subtle gradations in what "Melo's camp" has --and has not-- told the Nets.
Basically, they haven't been warned off pursuing 'Melo...but haven't been encouraged either.
Fred Kerber of the New York Post, quoting "someone who should know", wrote: "the Nets never have been told Anthony will sign with them. The Nets never have been told he won’t. The belief is the Nuggets will listen hardest and longest to what the Nets offer." Separately, Kerber writes that the Nets expect a deal could down by month's end.
Benjamin Hochman of the Denver Post reported a "league source" who "told him that "Melo's camp has not made it clear to New Jersey if he would sign a contract extension in order to play for the Nets." The same source said "would have made the moves even if Melo wasn't on the trade block".
Ken Berger of CBS Sports quoted a rival team executive" that the Nets "got word that Melo will not sign there. They can't get it done" then added, "The Nets, who now have five first-round picks in the next two draft continue to proceed on the information they've received from Anthony's camp -- that he would extend with them as part of a trade."