So, its the BULLS and ROCKETS as lead suitors for Melo.
To clear cap-space, the BULLS will need to amnesty Boozer and lose a prime Gibson (and likely an emrging Butler) ....... losing Gibson and Butler makes a major dent on that vaunted BULLS defense.
To clear cap-space, the ROCKETS will need to lose both Asik and Lin - both of them have massive expiring contracts, which is almost always attractive to rebuilding teams ....... losing both Asik and Lin wont have much impact, since Asik hardly plays (has long demanded a trade) and Lin is a 2nd string PG.
Theoretically, the ROCKETS can still keep Howard, Harden, Parsons, Beverly, Jones, etc which should be more attractive to Melo compared to the BULLS ...... add the fact the uncertainty that DRose brings due to his injuries.
ROCKETS = Very good roster, Half-decent (High octane offense, little defense) Head Coach, but plays in the extremely tough West
BULLS = Incomplete roster, Blue-chip Head Coach, but plays in a very weak East