Sources: Clippers agree to one-year deal with Luc Mbah a Moute
Free-agent forward Luc Mbah a Moute has agreed to a one-year, $4.3 million deal with the LA Clippers, league sources told ESPN.
The Clippers are paying Mbah a Moute the balance of their midlevel exception, bringing him back to the franchise after a season away with the Houston Rockets.
The Rockets have lost Mbah a Moute, 31, and Trevor Arizaand plan to ramp up a pursuit of Carmelo Anthony once he becomes available after a trade and buyout or waive and stretch with the Oklahoma City Thunder, league sources told ESPN.
The Thunder could waive and stretch Anthony's $27.9 million salary, saving the franchise $107 million in salary and tax, within the next seven to 10 days if they are unable to find a trade partner, league sources said. The Rockets will be a premium consideration for Anthony, along with the Miami Heat, league sources said.
Mbah a Moute left the Clippers after two seasons, joining Chris Paulin the move to the Rockets. Mbah a Moute will play significant minutes in the Clippers' rotation behind starter Tobias Harris.
Houston has lost two of its top rotational small forwards in free agency, including Ariza, who signed a one-year, $15 million deal with the Phoenix Suns. Mbah a Moute played a significant role in helping the Rockets become an elite defensive team.
The Rockets were able to offer Mbah a Moute the $2.4 million veterans minimum.
