OKC Thunder begin preseason versus an old nemesis – game day preview, Oct 3

Shared story lines:

• Influx of talent to both teams with three All-Stars changing addresses
• How quickly each team’s new super stars will integrate with new environment
  • For the Rockets that means who will be the primary ball handler, distributor
  • For the OKC Thunder that means how the Big 3 will tackle shot distribution
• Which of these two teams could be Golden State Warriors greatest challenger. The Rockets quick paced, three point heavy offense is expected to be the main offensive rival to the Warriors. While the OKC Thunder Big 3 and bolstered defensive additions is expected to offer a complete game challenge. The Spurs also remain in the mix, but with Tony Parker out injured to start the season, an aging core and Kawhi Leonard nursing yet another quad injury it could set them back early.

• Perhaps the biggest story line centered around one common theme, or rather player. Carmelo Anthony initially gave Knicks management one team he was willing to waive his no trade clause for –  the Houston Rockets.  As training camp drew near Anthony expanded the list to include the Cavaliers and Thunder.  As NBA.com writer David Aldridge noted the Knicks were not enticed by Kevin Love which ruled out Cleveland. Houston’s shot got doused because New York had zero interest in taking on Ryan Anderson or any proposed 3-team options. Ultimately, Morey got hamstrung by over extending in the introductory TV contract fueled offseason of 2016.

"The Knicks have not had any interest in a potential trade with Houston, which has centered its trade discussions with New York on the Knicks taking back forward Ryan Anderson, who has three years and $60 million remaining on his deal. Nor has New York been interested in potential three-team deals involving the Rockets that Houston has initiated."