NBA trade rumors 2016: Melo may move to the Cleveland Cavaliers

The Cleveland Cavaliers recently suffered their first loss of the season as they faltered against the Atlanta Hawks.

Prior to the loss, they were the only unbeaten team in the season and it appears that the Cavaliers are ready to defend their title. However, they are far from perfect, and it appears that they are still affected by some trade rumors.

This time, the Cavaliers are linked to a superstar from the Big Apple. Carmelo Anthony is rumored to be on his way to Ohio.

Part of the same draft class as LeBron James, Anthony is one of James' closest friends in the league and a partnership may be likely if it was given a chance.

The New York Knicks are clearly struggling despite adding big-named players like Joakim Noah and Derrick Rose, and now it appears the best chance for Anthony to win a title is to pair up with some of his closest buddies in the league.

One of the best offensive players in the game, Anthony averages 24.9 points and 6.6 rebounds per game.

He has averaged similar numbers at the start of this season but it has only translated to a rocky start for the Knicks. They were viewed to be a surprise team heading into the season, but the lukewarm performances have resulted in people losing faith in what they can accomplish.

If Anthony were to move to Ohio, and it is claimed that Kevin Love would move out in the process, then the Cavaliers would pick up a more talented offensive threat as Melo has more moves than Love. However, rebounding and defending edges are for Love as Melo is not considered to be one of the better defenders in the league.

The chances of Melo moving to the Cavaliers may be slim, but if it happens, it would make a big shift towards the East and the Cavaliers may be in favor of winning it all again.