NEW ORLEANS — Chris Paul knows where Carmelo Anthony’s heart is, and it’s still in New York.
Though Anthony has been linked to the Clippers to reunite with his buddy, Paul said he realizes Anthony still prefers the Big Apple.
“I know he loves it there,’’ Paul said when asked by The Post if Anthony will stay or go during All-Star weekend festivities. “His family loves it there. Most of all, he loves to play basketball there. Whatever he does, I’ll support him 110 percent.’’
There was an erroneous report earlier this season that claimed the Knicks were contemplating trading Anthony for Clippers power forward Blake Griffin. The only scenario tin which hat would occur is in a sign-and-trade in July if the Knicks are forced into it by Anthony.
In his most important statements on his future, Anthony dropped a bombshell Friday, saying he will take “a paycut’’ to stay in New York — if he likes owner James Dolan’s plans for the future. If he doesn’t believe it will work, it’s goodbye and the under-the-cap Lakers and Clippers are potential landing spots.
Paul, aka CP3, said he will give Anthony advice over the summer if he needs it. Anthony and his wife, La La, have a place in Los Angeles and she has spent a lot of time in Hollywood.
“One thing I learned about L.A., it recruits itself,’’ Paul said when asked about Anthony’s interest in going west. “I don’t think I’m one of those recruiting people. Seeing the way we play and our coaching staff, all that plays a role. We have somewhere that a lot of guys want to play. Everybody is linked to Los Angeles. It’s a nice play to live I guess. ‘’
Griffin is having a terrific season but said he wasn’t shocked he and Anthony have been linked in a swap. Griffin said he’s hoping it does not come to pass.
“Not surprised,’’ Griffin said. “Nothing surprises you anymore after seeing so many rumors going around. You got to brush them off and keep playing.
“I wouldn’t want to leave Los Angeles, of course not. They may have different plans. It’s not really up to me. It’s up to them. I would never want to leave Los Angeles. But sometimes it’s out of your hands.’’
Paul said he realizes Anthony is downcast as he deals with a 20-32 record at the All-Star break and uncertainty that Dolan has a plan to get the Knicks back to the elite. Anthony was particularly distressed over the disastrous loss to the Kings leading into the break.
Paul said Anthony was a bit somber over dinner Thursday night.
“He’s having his ups and downs, but he’s a big boy, he’ll be all right,’’ Paul said. “I’ve been in that place, especially with my injuries. Melo was the first person to reach out to me. LeBron [James] and those guys, we really have a brotherhood. We got a group text message where we talk and check on each other.’’
Anthony has made no secret All-Star weekend has been tough despite being in the starting frontcourt with James and Paul George on Sunday night.
There have been “sleepless nights.’’ said Anthony, who acknowledged Paul saw him in a somber mood. “It was one of those moments I just wanted to eat, chill, relax. He asked if I was OK.’’
Anthony likely is not, but he’s trying.
“It’s a time for me to relax and take breather for a moment,’’ Anthony said. “The season has been not only stressful but a lot of sleepless nights. A lot of confusion, no clarity, trying to figure it out.’’
Anthony reiterated he still wants this to work.
“I don’t want to be traded,’’ Anthony said. “I came to New York, I said before I wanted to retire here. I said it, meant it. That’s how I feel. I still feel strongly about that. That’s why at the end of the season, everything has to be laid out — something that we can grow with and build on.”