Rockets owner: Team never discussed avoiding luxury tax this summer

Contrary to what recent offseason decisions may lead one to believe - namely, allowing forwards Trevor Ariza and Luc Richard Mbah a Moute to sign elsewhere - the Houston Rockets have not been attempting to save money or duck the luxury-tax threshold this summer.

Take it from the man who ultimately signs the checks.

"We know we're going to be in the luxury tax, and if you want to compete for a championship, I feel like unless you get real lucky, you're going to be in the luxury tax," Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta told ESPN's Tim MacMahon Monday at Las Vegas Summer League. "So it is what it is. ... It never even came up in any discussion."

Ariza signed with the Phoenix Suns for $15 million shortly after free agency opened on July 1, while Mbah a Moute reportedly signed for $4.3 million with the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday. Both contracts are for one season. The two forwards were major contributors to the Rockets' league-best 65-17 regular-season record last season.

"Both Trevor and Mbah a Moute were a big part of our team," Rockets general manager Daryl Morey said on the broadcast of the summer league clash between the Rockets and Clippers. "That's part of my job and our staff's job is to put together a new group for this year. We feel confident. We need our best team on April 15. We're going to either sign or trade or something to get us back to where we need to be, and we also really like our group."

Morey's claim could prove prophetic in short order. The Rockets are reportedly set on signing 10-time All-Star forward Carmelo Anthony - expected to be moved by the Oklahoma City Thunder - should he become available.