Even though Carmelo Anthony is one of the most coveted names in the upcoming 2014 NBA Free agency, their are only a handful of realistic destinations for the super star forward. Of course, he could sign with any team he wants as long as they have the money to pay him, but every intelligent fan knows that its not likely going to happen. For a player with Melo's caliber, he is either heading to a team where he can be the star with a max contract or take less money to become part of a championship built franchise.
Now, although the Bulls, Knicks, and Rockets are rumored to be his most likely landing spots, its definitely too early to rule out the Dallas Mavericks. And given their recent acquisition of defensive big man Tyson Chandler via a sign-and-trade deal with the Knicks, the Mavericks may perhaps be the ultimate winner of the Melo sweepstakes in this summer's free agency.
Mark Cuban's team is certainly poised to make a run at Melo next week when the free agency officially begins. With Tyson Chandler manning the middle, Dirk Nowitzki spacing the floor, and Monta Ellis constantly slicing opponent's defense, the Mavs have a solid core of players that can help Melo compete for NBA titles even in a very tough Western Conference.
The Mavs were also the only team to take the 2014 NBA champions Spurs to Game 7 in the recent playoffs and looked like a team that will be competitive for many years to come.
On top of that, the Mavs have the most salary cap flexibility this offseason in the NBA. They were originally sitting at approximately $32 million under the cap but the Chandler deal sliced it to a little more than $3 million. But it still leaves the team with enough room to offer Anthony an attractive contract.
Dirk has also made it clear repeatedly in the past that he is willing to take a pay cut as long as it means bringing in key players to the team. With that being said, money is not a problem for Dallas in this summer's free agency market. They could surely add key pieces to the team even if they have Melo locked in a max-deal.
Ultimately, the decision still rests with Melo on whether or not he wants to wear a Mavs uniform next season. But if being part of a top-notch organization with a solid cast of players, a championship caliber coach, and passionate owner that wants to win now are on his list of priorities, then he has to seriously consider the Mavs as his next home this offseason.
Join the Conversation