Questions with the Potential Melo Trade

Rumors have been swirling all season about the potential trade of Nuggets star Carmelo Anthony, but with Melo having to essentially OK any move (nobody will trade for him without some sort of agreement on an extension), nothing has materialized.  That might change in the coming weeks, however.  The latest scenario includes Denver, New Jersey and Detroit as a potential third team.  In it, Anthony, Billups and Rip Hamilton would join forces in Jersey, Devin Harris, 1st round pick Derrick Favors and Anthony Morrow, going to Denver, along with multiple first round picks, and Troy Murphy & Johan Petro going to Detroit, with some expiring contracts.  (of course, there are a few other players that are of very little significance also moving with these players to make ends meet).  The biggest question mark in this trade is why on earth would Carmelo OR the Pistons be interested? 

Carmelo, certain to be the top free agent should he decide to become one this offseason, could simply wait until the trade deadline, finish the season in Denver, and join Amar'e and the Knicks next year.  With the possibility of the Knicks also adding Chris Paul or Steve Nash next year, they would instantly be a contender in the East.  Going to New Jersey, and signing a long term contract, simply makes no sense.  He would be no closer to a title in Jersey than he was in Denver.  The only possible reason to accept the move, would be to play in the New York market just a little bit earlier. (I didn't say it was a good reason)

What even makes less sense is why the Pistons are wanting to get involved.  While they'd get rid of Rip Hamilton's horrible contract, but they take on Petro's 3-year, $10 million monster.  Although they are apparently reluctant to take on Petro, experts think the sides will eventually work it out.  Still, there just doesn't seem to be incentive for the Pistons to get involved.  What do they gain from it?  They lose a halfway decent, albeit overpaid, player in Hamilton, and get nothing of value in return. 

Denver and New Jersey would obviously be elated with the deal.  The Nets would have a true star to build a championship caliber team around, while the Nuggets would get a solid package of young talent and future 1st round picks.  A package that is certainly better than what Minnesota got for Kevin Garnett a few years back.