Have you ever heard of an NBA star “opting in” or “opting out” of their contract and wondered what it’s all about? You’re not the only one! It’s a huge component of how players determine their future, and it’s easier than you’ll think.
What Is It?
Think of a “player option” as a special clause added to a basketball contract, usually for the last year. It gives the player (and only the player!) the power to choose what happens next.
Two Big Choices:
When a player’s contract reaches that “player option” year, they have two main paths:
Opt In: This is where the player chooses to opt in to accept that last year of their contract. They receive the agreed money and remain with their team for one more season.
Opt Out: When the player chooses to forgo that last year. They forfeit that guarantee money to become free agents. Why do they do this? Typically, it’s to attempt to sign a fresh, bigger contract with their existing team or another team, or to sign with a team that promises a better opportunity to win a title.
Why Is It Important?
Player choices provide stars with a great deal of authority and freedom. It allows them to have a view of how they are performing, how their team is performing, or how the league’s financial situation is before they commit to a long-term contract.
We recently witnessed LeBron James exercise his massive contract to remain with the Lakers. In contrast, Dorian Finney-Smith exercised his option to become a free agent in search of a new destination.
These are massive moments in the NBA that set teams and careers!
Sam, a dedicated blogger, has immersed himself in the world of content creation for the past five years. His journey reflects a profound passion for storytelling and insightful commentary. Beyond the digital realm, Sam is a devoted NBA enthusiast, seamlessly blending his love for sports with his writing pursuits.