3. Miami Heat
Eight years ago, three star players from the 2003 NBA Draft teamed up in Miami and led the Heat to four straight NBA Finals appearances and two titles. The fourth star from that draft, Carmelo Anthony, was left to watch from afar as his second contract did not contain an option to hit free agency that summer.
While LeBron James and Chris Bosh are no longer in Miami, Dwyane Wade is, and Anthony could join up with his fellow Banana Boat friend and join the Heat eight seasons too late. Anthony and Wade will not be leading the Heat to any titles — especially since they will not be leading this team; Pat Riley will be sure to communicate the way of things now — but there is plenty of draw to Miami all the same.
Joining the Heat would mean living in Miami, perhaps the second-best NBA destination next to Los Angeles. He would be on a playoff team in the Eastern Conference, where the path is easier, and would be part of an organization with the backbone to tell Anthony he is a bench player. With Wade coming off the bench it will be an easier pill to swallow, and could actually lead to a more defined role and more shots as a bench gunner.
Miami represents the middle ground between true contention and the other things important to Anthony. Does he want to live on the East Coast again? Does he wish to return to the Eastern Conference, where another All-Star berth is at least possible? The fit with the Heat is not perfect, but if Miami is truly pursuing Anthony, the feeling of being wanted could seal the deal.