Carmelo gives up US$2.4M as Hawks contract buyout paves way for Rockets move

CARMELO Anthony looks all set to move to the Houston Rockets after finalizing a contract buyout with the Atlanta Hawks.

The All-Star forward landed in Atlanta on a three-team deal with Oklahoma City and Philadelphia. On Monday (Tuesday, Manila time), it was announced the Hawks have requested waivers on Anthony.

The negotiations ended with Anthony, due $27.9 million on his contract, giving back $2.4 million.

Earlier reports said Anthony’s preferred destination is Houston, which has a formidable backcourt tandem in James Harden and Chris Paul.

Anthony will clear waivers on Wednesday afternoon.

The 34-year-old Anthony averaged a career-worst 16.2 points last season in an Oklahoma City squad led by Russell Westbrook and Paul George.