11:32pm: Anthony’s decision isn’t expected to linger late into the week, a source tells Marc J. Spears of Yahoo (on Twitter).
5:14pm: As of right now, Carmelo Anthony‘s camp hasn’t told any of his main suitors that they’re out of contention, tweets Marc Stein of ESPN.com. Those clubs include the Rockets, Bulls, Mavs, and Lakers. Of course, the incumbent Knicks are very much in contention as well.
It has been widely assumed in NBA circles that Anthony is a slam dunk to return to New York but that might not be the case. Everyone is still technically alive at this point, though Stein (link) hears there is a rising sense around the league that Melo is likely to choose between the Knicks and Lakers.
Earlier today it was reported that the Lakers believe that Pau Gasol would re-sign quickly if Anthony or LeBron James came to L.A. If the Lakers can retain the Spaniard and add Anthony, they’ll be in pretty solid shape for next season.