NBA Free Agency 2018: 10 biggest player option decisions

3. Carmelo Anthony

Carmelo Anthony’s departure from New York resulted in an unexpected 2018 offseason compared to the expectations at this time last year. With a contract worth $27,928,140 next season, it is highly unlikely Anthony elects to rock a jersey other than Oklahoma City’s in 2018-19. The 10-time NBA All-Star and former scoring champion found himself in an unfamiliar position as he watched the most crucial seconds of the Thunder season tick away from the bench.

The benefit of a player option means the Thunder’s wishes to keep or move on from Anthony cease to matter. Whether Anthony imperils the Thunder or not, almost $28 million is far more than the production he provided the Thunder anyway you cut it. At 34-years-old, Anthony is on the back end of his career and started showing signs of slowing down. Still a prolific scorer, his first step is not near as explosive from when he entered the league. He is still impactful but in a more limited role that forces him to play primarily at the 4 because he lacks the speed to defend against quicker players.

It is entirely possible Anthony’s largest concern lies in winning. In which case, opting-out allows him to join a title contender at a pay cut if he so chooses.

This season undoubtedly will be different than the expectation entering last season for Anthony and the Thunder. He poses to collect top dollar from the Thunder if he elects to return. Either way, he will likely see a less expansive role next year.