Tim Hardaway Jr. wants Carmelo around for next Knicks chapter

Newcomer Tim Hardaway Jr. is already lobbying for Carmelo Anthony to stick.

Hardaway said he has yet to hear from his buddy since he officially rejoined the Knicks on Saturday, but he would like Anthony back in the fold, even if management is intent on looking to deal him.

“It’s an odd feeling,’’ Hardaway said Monday. “Melo has to do what’s best for his family and for him. Yes, we definitely want him back, no question. Us having that veteran leader on the floor — a go-to guy, get you a bucket at any given moment — it’s great to have that. It’ll be tough for him to leave, but he’s got to do what’s best for him.’’

Anthony is finally agreeable to be traded — at least to the Rockets or Cavaliers. Acting Knicks president Steve Mills is embarking on a rebuild with Hardaway now one of the centerpieces after he signed a four-year, $71 million pact. Ironically, sources said Anthony was ticked the night Hardaway was shipped away two years ago for the rights to long-gone point guard Jerian Grant.

One potential plan has Anthony out and the 6-foot-6 Hardaway and incumbent starting shooting guard Courtney Lee playing in a three-guard alignment.

“I think we can fit together very well,’’ Hardaway Jr. said. “I played alongside Kent Bazmore in Atlanta. We’re similar positions, same height. [Bazemore] guarded the 3. I guarded the 2. We’ll click.”