While they surprised many people when they managed to convince Paul George to sign a long-term extension this summer, the Oklahoma City Thunder are still going to have a significantly different look next season.
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski and Royce Young reported on Friday that the Thunder will part ways with Carmelo Anthony this summer, either by way of a trade or using the stretch provision. Anthony chose to opt into the $27.9 million he is owed for the 2018-2019 season, and the Thunder could save $90 million in luxury tax by dropping their tax bill from $150 million to $60 million if they use the stretch provision on Carmelo.
The Thunder could also look into a combination of a buyout and using the stretch, or they could find a trade partner for Anthony. Any trade Oklahoma City agreed to would likely be with a team that is looking for a sizable expiring contract, and Anthony would probably be waived and become a free agent. For that reason, Wojnarowski and Young note that he is unlikely to block a deal by invoking his no-trade clause.
Anthony has expressed concerns about his role with the Thunder, and his decision to opt into the final year of his deal seemed like it was strictly a financial one.
