Proposed Deal for Anthony Is All About Bad Contracts

Like a Hollywood star breathlessly accepting an Oscar, Carmelo Anthony will have many people to thank on the day that he is, at long last, traded to a new team.

His agents, for their dogged persistence.

The Denver Nuggets, for their cooperation and understanding.

The Nets (or whichever team lands him), for their commitment and show of faith.

Like any conscientious celebrity, he should also thank the bit players who made it all possible: Johan Petro, Anthony Morrow, Troy Murphy and a supporting cast of profligate team executives.

N.B.A. trades are not built on an exchange of similar talent, but similar contracts. If $20 million comes in, then about $20 million has to go out. Expendable players and bad contracts are essential.

The potential three-way trade between the Nets, the Nuggets and the Detroit Pistons could not happen without an ample supply of contract flotsam.

Petro, for example, was signed by the Nets last summer to an instantly regrettable three-year, $10 million contract. He is practically useless on the court (averaging 2.7 points and 2.5 rebounds), but his $3 million salary will help the Nets acquire Richard Hamilton from Detroit.