The OKC Thunder are heavily in the luxury tax and avidly working to chop down its potential tax bill. Here are some quick fire moves that save OKC millions.
As it stands, the OKC Thunder are on the books for a $160-million-dollar tax bill. While the pockets of millionaires are an after thought for every NBA fan, there is a limit to spending someone else’s money.
The luxury tax is a real thing, paid by real people using real money. While Oklahoma City’s ownership declared its willingness to pay the tax this offseason, it will be done within reason. Its not a free-for-all, contrary to what you may believe.
With that being said, Oklahoma City have a bunch of expiring deals on its books. The Thunder are working with Carmelo Anthony‘s representatives to trade, buy-out or stretch the former All Star.
Melo’s deal is expiring but its by far the most difficult to move. $27.9-million-dollars is a fair chunk of money, particularly in a climate as tight as the NBA is currently. Either way, OKC stand to save over $100-million-dollars if Anthony’s full amount is stretched over three seasons.
ESPN Sources with @royceyoung: Oklahoma City, Carmelo Anthony will part ways this summer, likely saving team over $100M. Thunder working with 'Melo's reps on exits that include trade, stretch provision. Story: https://t.co/mJbxINv2Cd
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 6, 2018
However, OKC can save even more money by moving players outside the rotation. For argument sake, lets assume Anthony’s contract is still on the books. By moving the following contracts, OKC stand to save millions.
*NOTE: The following contracts are not compounded on one another. Savings were calculated on the basis of their individual deals being moved.