NBA Free Agency: 5 high-impact veterans still available for the 2019-20 season

Carmelo Anthony at a Knicks/Heat game
Carmelo Anthony at a Knicks/Heat game

#1 Carmelo Anthony

Carmelo last played for the Rockets
Carmelo last played for the Rockets

As the summer progresses, Carmelo Anthony is still searching for a home. The 16-year veteran last played for the Rockets, as they tried to become a championship team. However, his time was cut short.

Anthony joined the Rockets after signing a one-year, $2.4 million deal. The Oklahoma City Thunder traded Anthony to the Atlanta Hawks, and he received a buyout from Atlanta. Once he officially cleared waivers, he joined Chris Paul and James Harden in Houston.

With the Rockets, Anthony averaged 13.4 points and 5.4 rebounds. His stats were low, but in the right role, Anthony could have potentially helped the Rockets succeed. If he contributed enough, the Rockets might have become a championship team.

Anthony played 10 games with the Rockets before Houston parted ways with him. The decision led to the Rockets trading Anthony in January. On January 22, the Rockets traded Anthony to the Bulls in exchange for the draft rights of Tadija Dragicevic. The Bulls waived him in February.

Since then, Anthony has been waiting for an offer. The Lakers were tied to rumors of signing Anthony, but nothing happened. As the season went on, Anthony remained a free agent. Now, Carmelo's name is back in the news. He is trying to get back in the league for at least more year. If Anthony is set to retire, he wants a farewell tour (similar to friend Dwyane Wade) to say goodbye. However, he has received little interest.

Anthony has remained in shape in hopes of getting another chance. His trainer said that he is NBA ready and better than 70 percent of the NBA. While both statements may or may not be right, Anthony has not received his opportunity to prove it.

Shams Charania reported that NBA executives are in "serious doubt" about Anthony's NBA future. So, there is a chance that teams may pass on the 35-year-old forward.

However, if a team gives him a chance, Carmelo Anthony can contribute and help them achieve success.

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