Carmelo Anthony watch: OKC Thunder must seize moment to facilitate trade with Bulls
Why OKC do it
Despite a rocky start to his NBA career, Portis oozes potential. With the ability to light it up from the perimeter, the third year forward offers an offensive threat the second unit severely lacks. With more time, Portis will be a starter in this league and gives OKC a future building block.
The Thunder also save millions in luxury tax. The primary goal this offseason was to lower the tax bill while increasing the ceiling of the roster. In this deal, both objectives are achieved.
How much will OKC pay in luxury tax?
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With Asik on the books, OKC will pay approximately $80.5 million in luxury tax. A buy-out of roughly $14 million stretched over three years drops the Thunder’s tax bill to $51.3 million.
If Felicio is dealt, the Thunder can stretch his contract over seven seasons (remaining guaranteed salary over twice the remaining length of the contract, plus one year). This carries a cap hit of approximately $3.4 million with the Thunder paying roughly $45.4 million in tax.
NOTE: The luxury tax is calculated with the inclusion of Bobby Portis’ contract.
Is it realistic?
In order for this trade to happen, Chicago must agree to a buy-out Anthony after he is dealt. Melo agreed to waive his no-trade clause provided the team he goes to releases him. In the event the Bulls buy-out Melo’s full contract, Chicago will sit $7-million below the salary cap. This leaves them with approximately $30 million dollars to play with.
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Despite taking on salary, OKC save approximately $120 million in luxury tax. Additionally, they add a promising big man whose shown flashes of scoring potential. This deal hinges on what OKC are willing to give up but if there’s a front office who can do it, we can.
In Presti, we trust.