Despite an incredible rapport with his New York Knicks teammates, Carmelo Anthony couldn't manage to fall in favor with the organization after a growing belief that he'd negatively affect up-and-coming star Kristaps Porzingis.

The messy divorce between the two parties was mainly caused by little rumors going around management, implying Anthony's “habits” would affect Porzingis in his rise to stardom.

via Ian Begley of ESPN:

Some in the Knicks' front office started to sour on Anthony when Porzingis emerged as a potential franchise player after his rookie season.

Several top members of Knicks management told associates that they felt they couldn't win with Anthony and that his habits would negatively affect Porzingis and the other young Knicks, according to sources. That whisper campaign turned public, of course, late in the season when (Phil) Jackson leveled public critiques — some direct, and some indirect — at Anthony. Jackson openly stated his desire for Anthony to waive his no-trade clause, which complicated any potential deals.

This growing resentment agitated the situation even more in Porzingis' second year, when Jackson darted subliminal comments based on Anthony's play, while lauding the progress Porzingis; his No. 4 overall selection in 2015, had on the court.

Jackson's denouncement of Anthony's play and admiration of the unicorn's progress was what kept him in favor with ownership — and most importantly what kept his job safe after years of losing and not making the playoffs.