For Carmelo Anthony, money can take a backseat to giving the New York Knicks the financial flexibility to add elite talent.

Well, at least that's what the small forward -- who has the option to become a free agent following this season -- was saying Friday during his 30-minute interview with beat writers inquiring about his future with the Knicks to kick off the NBA's All-Star weekend.

"Without a doubt, any opportunity I have to build that up in New York, I'd do it," Anthony told reporters in New Orleans, where the All-Star Game is being held this year. "I told people all the time, if it takes me taking a pay cut, I'll be the first one on [Knicks owner James Dolan's] steps saying, 'Take my money and let's build something strong over here.' "

That said, Anthony, 29, went on to state that any hometown discount couldn't even be possible without the Knicks presenting him with a clear plan for success at season's end.

"I haven't had any in-depth conversation with management about who I want to play with, what kind of team we should have," the six-time All-Star said. "I've never had those conversations. I always look at what's going on and always feel naively I could change it and turn it around and put it on my shoulders.

"That time is going to come,'' Anthony added. "When that time comes, everything will be laid out on the table. If they can counter that, we have a long future ahead of us.''

In short, Anthony, as a top-tier player averaging 27.3 points, 8.6 rebounds and three assists per game on the 2013-14 season, can opt to take a five years and $129 million contract from the Knicks. Re-signing for a price that saves New York a significant amount of money, however, better enables the franchise to acquire some much-need talent-as in, beyond just one other great player-from a 2015 free agent class that will include Minnesota Timberwolves power forward Kevin Love and Boston Celtics point guard Rajon Rondo.

Let's see if the Knicks, who've not won a championship since 1973, can convince Anthony to put his money where his mouth is.