Carmelo Anthony rumors: Houston Rockets pitching they are a contender

Jan 3, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; New York Knicks small forward Carmelo Anthony (7) drives the ball during the fourth quarter as Houston Rockets small forward Chandler Parsons (25) defends at Toyota Center. The Rockets defeated the Knicks 102-100. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

The Houston Rockets have been a major player in each of the last two offseasons and hope to do the same this summer.

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In 2012, the Rockets acquired guard James Harden from the Oklahoma City Thunder. Last year, they signed former Orlando Magic and Los Angeles Lakers’ center Dwight Howard. They’ll be aiming sky-high once again this year, pursuing both Miami Heat forward LeBron James and New York Knicks’ forward Carmelo Anthony. James seems like a good bet to eventually remain with the Heat. Although recent reports have indicated the Knicks are the favorites to keep Anthony, he seems more likely to move on from his current squad and the Rockets will have a chance to make a pitch to him.

Jonathan Feigen of The Houston Chronicle breaks down the Rockets’ pitch to Anthony.

"The thrust of the presentation will be about the Rockets’ contention that Anthony, a 6-8 forward, would be joining a contender. According to an individual familiar with the plans, they would cite their roster, expected to include every starter off a 54-win team.They will describe how Anthony, 30, would be used. They will use many of the same representatives — owner Leslie Alexander, CEO Tad Brown, general manager Daryl Morey, coach Kevin McHale, former player Clyde Drexler, trainer Keith Jones and James Harden — as those who landed Howard. Howard will also be a part of the presentation, replacing free agent Chandler Parsons on the welcoming committee."

Anthony put up 27.4 points, 8.1 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game and shot 45.2% from the field, 40.2% from beyond the arc and 84.8% from the free throw line last season.

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