A source close to the situation tells ESPN that the Nuggets prefer not to trade Carmelo Anthony to the Knicks, who are presumed to be the superstar's preferred destination.

The Knicks continue to pursue Anthony and have tried to enlist the Blazers to facilitate a three-team trade.  So far Portland has made Nicolas Batum off limits in any scenario.

Denver feels that the Nets will keep their offer of Derrick Favors and draft picks on the table through the trade deadline in February.

The Nuggets remain likely to deal Anthony rather than face losing him to free agency in the off-season.