Top buyout candidates after the NBA trade deadline

Carmelo Anthony

Carmelo Anthony has not played an NBA game since November 8, 2018, when he last suited up for the Rockets. The 34-year-old swingman has only played ten games this season after getting bought out of his $28M contract with the Hawks.

The Rockets moved Anthony to the Bulls in late January along with his current veteran’s minimum deal, $2.4M. He hasn’t played for the organization and is not expected to get an opportunity with them. Instead, the Bulls are likely to buy him out, with most speculation having him land with the Lakers.

Should Melo be waived for the second time this season and prefer Toronto over Los Angeles, there will be great debate over whether he is the right fit for the Raptors. That discussion has been ongoing all season already. Many believe that the Raps would be wise to stay clear of Melo due to his shooting decline, lack of defense and being tagged as a dressing room cancer. Those in the other camp, who feel that Anthony can still bring value for a team, are willing to take a chance on the 10-time all-star and former scoring champion.

Players from around the league have come out and expressed their love for the volume shooter. Many have said that he is misrepresented by the media and actually beloved by his teammates. If the front office of the Raptors believes that Melo could be a fit in a limited role, they might just trust those who sing his praises and give him a shot in the Six.