NBA Trade News 2017: OKC Welcomes Carmelo Anthony; Tips the Balance of Western Conference
With Carmelo Anthony's transfer to the Oklahoma City Thunder, fans and sports analysts agree that the team has suddenly emerged as a rising "super team" that will tip the balance of the Western Conference competition in the upcoming National Basketball Association season 2017-18.
After several months of uncertainty at the New York Knicks camp, Anthony found a new home in Oklahoma. In exchange for Anthony, the Knicks are acquiring Enes Kanter, Doug McDermott, and a second-round draft pick.
According to ESPN, the Knicks asked Anthony to provide them with an "expanded list" of teams he would consider waiving his no-trade clause for other than his reported bet, the Houston Rockets.
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Fans will recall that previous reports confirmed that Anthony would agree to be traded to the Rockets especially after Chris Paul's transfer to the said team. However, shortly after the reorganization of New York's front office, the negotiation with the Rockets was stalled.
The same ESPN report mentioned that, along with OKC, Anthony and his representatives listed the Cleveland Cavaliers as another option.
Local media, KOCO 5 News, shared a video of Anthony arriving at the Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City on Sunday. In the background, loud screams from fans chanting the player's nickname "Melo" were heard. Anthony then approached the OKC fans and gave them high fives through the metal fencing.
Meanwhile, Anthony's trade to the Thunder sparks high expectations for the team.
With Anthony's experience and hunger to prove his presence on the court, there is no doubt that the Oklahoma City Thunders is easily a team to watch for, especially in the NBA Western Conference.
Not only do the Thunder have a very reliable player and leadership in Russell Westbrook, fans will also recall that they have recently acquired Paul George from the Indiana Pacers.
Shortly after the news of Anthony's trade broke, George told USA Today Sports that the Thunder now "feels like a championship team."
"I'm in a good place. I know Russ (Westbrook) is in a good place. Melo is motivated more than ever...You put us three together, who all have something to prove still, (and) we're going to be a special team," George added.
