Until I see otherwise, my guess is the MLE is earmarked for Melo with the idea of utilizing that starting salary for Melo next season. It is a multi-season play. That makes sense to me. Do the Rockets have roster spots to give out to both Nunnally and Taylor to warrant using the MLE to split for them?
Not for both. I just meant does Morey call both again with more to spend, and choose one. Anyhoot: I also agree with MLE for Melo this year, or order to free up MLE next year. But I trust Morey either way. If he saves the MLE this year, then I believe he's got something planned for it, rather than just trying to save money, at the risk of losing Melo next year.
I have always believed that TF/DM should use the MLE for the BPA. I don't think it should be used for Melo. Melton has played better than expected in the summer league, so reserve part of it for him, and use the rest of it, to add depth. Ennis for the vet min, might pay off. MCW not likely. If DM can get someone better than MCW for the vet min, in the event Melo refuses to join Houston, he should go for another "Jeff Taylor". I'm glad MCW doesn't have a guaranteed contract. He would have play extremely well in training camp, i.e. within the team concept, to justify a place on the Rockets IMO.
Randolph is interesting. He's developed a 3 point shot since leaving the NBA and he's still under 30 and extremely athletic. His style fits today's NBA game. I have to think that somebody will pick him up. He's a big man where Nunnally is a wing.
