By Jordan Long
The Houston Rockets are targeting Carmelo Anthony to join the team once he becomes available following his release from the Oklahoma City Thunder. Anthony is expendable because of his $27.9 million contract. The Thunder are trying to save money on the salary cap and luxury tax.
Anthony is an offensive player. He had his worst year statistically on offense in his one and only year with Oklahoma City. He averaged a career low 16.2 points and 1.3 assists per game. With him struggling the Thunder relied on Russell Westbrook and Paul George. They ended the regular season at 48-34, 4th in the Western Conference.
In the playoffs it was a 1st round exit against the Utah Jazz. The Jazz didn’t allow Anthony to beat them. They always had a defender in his face to make his shot difficult. He scored 11.8 points per game in the 6 game series.
Anthony’s contract is too large. The Thunder are attempting to trade him. If that doesn’t work they could buy him out and cut him.
The Rockets are hoping he lands with them. The Rockets have already lost Trevor Ariza and Luc Mbah a Moute on offense. Adding Anthony makes them a deeper offensive team. He adds to the mix of Chris Paul and James Harden. Opponents wouldn’t know who to double team. If they double team one of them, the other two would be open for shots. The Rockets would probably be the #1 seed in the Western Conference like they were last year.
The only problem with adding Anthony is he isn’t interested in defense. He is not an athlete who will lock down a shooter and force them into tough shots on the defensive end. This might end up costing them games.
The Rockets will make the move if they feel it closes the gap on the Golden State Warriors. Houston should pass on Anthony. He is going to be costing too much money and adding him won’t help them advance to the NBA Finals or win an NBA championship.
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