IT is increasingly looking like Melo has decided to be a free agent after this season. My suspicision is the Nuggs are going to have a down year this year, with an aging, injured team, with little front court depth. Melo will not be in for a rebuilding project at this point of his career and will have strong incentive to sign elsewhere.

That is why I think the Nuggs should be putting together sign/trade scenarios for Melo now. New Orleans is desperate for box office help, and need to make a big move to keep Paul happy. How about a Nuggs-Hornets Trade with Denver sending Melo and Kmart to New Orleans for Okafor, Peja, and David West. The Nuggs get an immediate infusion of fron court depth and a great shooter in Peja. New Orleans gets the superstar they need to fill seats and keep Paul happy.

I would make this deal if the Nuggs are sure Melo will test free agency. In my opinion, "testing free agency" means Melo is gone.