While the Oklahoma City Thunder haven’t officially parted ways with small forward Carmelo Anthony, it’s only a matter of time before the sides split. When Anthony clears waivers, one team is reportedly the favorite to sign him.
According to Marc Stein of The New York Times, the Houston Rockets are the early favorites to sign the 10-time All-Star once he clears waivers after a likely buyout. It follows a report from last week that Houston is “determined to sign Anthony”.
In either scenario — after a complicated trade or going the simpler buyout route — Carmelo Anthony is widely expected to become a free agent .. with the Houston Rockets favored to sign Melo once he clears waivers https://t.co/jylH5jVhBx
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) July 13, 2018
Oklahoma City will continue to explore potential trades to get Anthony’s contract off the books, but it is prepared to buy him out if no deal can be reached. Even if another team agrees to take on Anthony’s salary for draft compensation from the Thunder, they would release the star forward.
The Thunder would have entered with a tax bill of $150 million this season if Anthony was on the roster, but they could save $116 million if they stretch Anthony’s remaining contract for $27.9 million.
The Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat have also been connected as potential landing spots with interest in Anthony.