Report: Knicks' Carmelo Anthony to opt out of deal, may look to Bulls

Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony will opt out of the final year of his contract and become an unrestricted free agent, multiple sources told ESPN.com's Marc Stein and Ian Begley on Sunday. He has until Monday to officially make his decision.

Anthony, a seven-time All-Star who averaged 27.4 points and a career-high 8.1 rebounds per game last season, emphasized his intention to become a free agent throughout last season.

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Anthony, who turned 30 last month, is also reportedly researching the Bulls, according to Begley. He has "talked to at least one high-profile person who lives in Chicago about what it's like to be famous in the Windy City," Begley writes, citing league sources.

The Bulls have also been looking into Anthony, as coach Tom Thibodeau has reached out to some of his former coaches, according to Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times.

Writes Begley: "In addition to the Bulls, Anthony would consider signing with the Houston Rockets and Dallas Mavericks if he tested free agency, sources say. The Miami Heat have also explored its available options in trying to pursue Anthony."

Anthony can sign a maximum contract with the Knicks for $129 million over five years. He can sign a deal with another team for $96 million over four years.

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