#1 Not wanting to play for a non-contender
Despite all the gloom regarding Carmelo Anthony's current state and his future in the league, the most likely reason that the 34-year-old will not play another game is due to his own desire.
It is virtually guaranteed that at least one team in the NBA would be willing to take on his veteran's minimum deal, especially when you consider the number of bad contracts around the league. Despite this, it is questionable whether Anthony would be willing to play for a team that is not a contender.
Anthony was even reluctant to join the Oklahoma City Thunder, so it remains to be seen if he will be willing to join a non-contender such as the Bulls or Suns. There is still a place for Melo in the NBA, although his future will come down to how much passion he has left to play basketball for a non-contend
Guess the Lakers players!