2. Signing Carmelo Anthony in Free Agency
There was a time in the NBA when Carmelo Anthony was one of the most dominant offensive players in the league. He averaged over 20 points every season through his first fifteen years and led the league in scoring in 2012-13. Unfortunately for Houston, that player isn’t what they can expect to see on the floor next season.
Melo’s time last year with the Oklahoma City Thunder can only be viewed as a colossal disappointment. Though his 16.2 points per game aren’t terrible by any means, it’s not the type of production we’ve come to expect from him. Anthony never found his place in OKC, and never developed chemistry with Russel Westbrook and Paul George. This lack of chemistry was exposed in their first-round playoff series against the Utah Jazz. Melo’s playoff performance was abysmal, averaging only 11.8 points per game, which resulted in fans and media calling for him to be benched.
Carmelo Anthony on-court vs. the Jazz: 194 minutes, -58
The Thunder with Carmelo Anthony off-court vs. the Jazz: 94 minutes, +32— Rodger Sherman (@rodger) April 28, 2018
It’s entirely possible that last season was an exception, and Anthony could return to form in Houston. The Rockets don’t have much to lose in this situation, as they’re only committed to one-year at $2.4 million. Mike D’Antoni’s offense is built around 3-point shooters, and Melo is efficient from beyond the arc, shooting nearly 35 percent for his career.
Though he’s an upgrade offensively for the recently departed Trevor Ariza, he’s a liability on the defensive end. Anthony has never been known for his defensive prowess, and Bleacher Report ranked him as the second worst defender at small forward. He’s not someone D’Antoni can rely on to guard the likes of Kevin Durant or LeBron James in the playoffs.
Morley was left with few options due to salary cap restrictions, and the indefensible $20.4 million owed Ryan Anderson next season. If Melo can find his role and contribute offensively, this deal could be viewed as a steal. If it’s a repeat of what happened last season in Oklahoma City, it’ll be another one-year stop for Anthony.
Grade: B-
Next Up: Move 1
