Three Reasons Why Carmelo and the Rockets are a Good Fit

Despite the recent speculation about Carmelo Anthony’s role on the Rockets, he can still help the team in many areas.

The free agency season is still on the go as there was recently a successful three-team trade between the Thunder, Hawks, and 76ers. The highlight of this trade is obviously Carmelo Anthony. The Thunder needed to lessen their luxury tax as it went up to $150m after signing Paul George to a $137m 4-year max contract. The Thunder ended up trading Carmelo Anthony for them to lessen the big luxury tax.

Hawks reportedly will waive Anthony, and the Rockets are the front-runners in signing Anthony. This gives Anthony another chance to prove himself and chase a ring.

Here are the key three reasons why Carmelo Anthony fits the Rockets.

1. Perimeter Shooting

The Rockets’ offensive system is primarily focused on perimeter shooting and ball movement, and Anthony as a proven shooter will fit instantly. But, his shooting numbers have declined in recent years. However, the Rockets’ high-octane offense can help Anthony get his rhythm back.

2. He Can Play His Natural Position

Courtesy: okcthunderwire.usatoday.com

When Anthony was traded to the Thunder,  he was forced to play the Power Forward position because he refused to play off the bench. With the Rockets losing their two small forwards, Trevor Ariza and Luc Mbah a Moute, Anthony will instantly slide in and play his natural position where the majority of his success has been from.

3. Anthony’s Underrated Perimeter Defense

As a result of the Rockets losing two key wing defender in Ariza and Mbah a Moute, Houston’s perimeter defense especially will now be exposed. Even though Anthony can’t replace their success on defense completely, he’s had games in which he dominated the halfcourt defensively on the wing. By playing his natural position at small forward, Anthony could make himself better on the defensive end which he is still capable of.

Anthony has been inconsistent in recent seasons. The Rockets now have an opportunity to make the most out of his late stages in his career. He’ll play with MVP James Harden, an experiment the Rockets can afford to make.