Rockets rumor: Chris Paul wants Carmelo Anthony in Houston

The Rockets, once again, are right in the thick of things with Melo this summer.

As if it was last summer again, the Rockets are back involved with the Melo-drama. Carmelo Anthony is in the process of being bought out by the Oklahoma City Thunder and Houston is interesting in his talents once again.

Much like what was rumored last year, it seems to be between a LeBron James team and the Rockets for his talents. Los Angeles and Houston are two of the main destinations for the 34-year-old forward.

Each team has a member of the “Banana Boat” crew of friends, with the Rockets’ representative being Chris Paul, of course. He is reportedly requesting that Houston picks up his good friend once he is bought-out or stretched.

Jordan Schultz of Yahoo Sports first broke the news of CP3 being involved in this process:

Source close to Chris Paul tells me that CP3 is advocating for the #Rockets to acquire his good friend, Carmelo Anthony. Melo, 34, made a career-high 169 3-pointers last season on a career-high 474 attempts (35.7 percent). https://t.co/C8LT4rSpFF

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) July 8, 2018

The credibility of Jordan Schultz at times can be questioned, especially with the Melo stuff last year, but he seems to have a source close to Chris Paul so we’ll somewhat believe him.

The 3-point fit

Schultz also made the point that Carmelo made a career-high amount of 3s last season. His percentage wasn’t great, but if he joins Houston, he’ll be encouraged to shoot even more.

Melo will need to lower the number of midrange jumpers he attempts in favor of the more analytical shot. He should be able to get plenty of open looks with CP3 and James Harden, two elite playmakers.

Better fit than OKC

Carmelo Anthony was in a bad place for his talents last season. He managed to have career-lows in many categories and didn’t look like himself.

In an environment like Houston that allows him to play more of his game and get better looks, we could see better things out of Melo. He still shot well off of catch-and-shoot opportunities which would be vital with the Rockets.

He’d also be available for fairly cheap. If it doesn’t work out between the two, the Rockets can cut their losses and waive him. But if things do work out, Houston would have another shot creator to throw at Golden State.

Next: Clint Capela is frustrated over contract negotiations

Let’s hope his defense would improve in Houston, too, under Jeff Bzdelik.