With the Early Termination Option deadline quickly approaching, decisions must be made. According to a report, Carmelo Anthony intends to stay with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Sources: Carmelo Anthony has informed the Oklahoma City Thunder that he has opted into $27.9M deal for 2018-19 by not exercising his early termination option.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 23, 2018
Refusing to exercise the ETO, the ten-time all-star is at odds with the franchise. Why? The Thunder hoped the forward would accept a diminished role with the franchise given his age and effectiveness. However, that has yet to happen. As it currently stands, Anthony is on track to earn $27.9M in the upcoming season.
It now leaves the Thunder with three options.
Oklahoma City could release Anthony while remaining on the hook for the full salary of the final year of the contract. If this were the case, the Thunder could pay out the contract over a three year period citing salary cap issues. Of course, this option is a last ditch effort for any franchise owner.
Secondly, OKC could shop the market for interest in the 34-year old. Given Anthony’s age and lack of effectiveness, it’s doubtful that the front office would be able to drum up much interest…especially if Anthony hopes for a starring role. The situation is further complicated given the “no trade” clause in the current contract.
The most likely scenario the Thunder will pursue is a buyout. Anthony has already opted-in for a final year with the franchise. However, the forward could give back a fraction of the salary if the two sides agreed upon the terms of a buyout. Previously Dwayne Wade and the Chicago Bulls set the standard and it appears as though Melo and OKC are following the blueprint.
I don’t see him playing for OKC next season but there certainly isn’t going to be an easy way to part with him. The Thunder are bound to take a huge hit regardless of the final decision.
I believe Melo will follow the example set by D-Wade with Chicago…opt-in only to negotiate a buyout down the road