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NBA free agency sees multiple player options declined ahead of June 30 deadline
Several players declined contract options while others opted in, with teams gaining flexibility for upcoming signings and trades. Discussions between the Clippers and Raptors over Kawhi Leonard continued.
Jul 10, 8:53 AM·1m read1 source
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Several NBA players declined player options on contracts for the 2026-27 season as the June 30 deadline approached. Draymond Green declined his $27.7 million option with the Warriors, while James Harden declined his $42.3 million option with the Cavaliers and began working on a new multiyear deal with the team.
Zach LaVine opted into his $49 million option with the Kings, and Fred VanVleet opted into his $25 million option with the Rockets. LaVine averaged 19.2 points in 39 games last season before missing time with a hand injury. VanVleet missed the entire 2025-26 season after tearing his ACL during an offseason workout.
Raptors continued trade talks for Kawhi Leonard, who has one year and $50.3 million remaining on his contract. Leonard's representatives informed other teams he would only sign an extension with the Raptors if the Clippers did not retain him.
Extension candidates Multiple players became eligible for contract extensions, including Stephen Curry, Nikola Jokic, Jaylen Brown, Anthony Edwards and Donovan Mitchell. Giannis Antetokounmpo became eligible for a four-year, $275 million max extension six months after his trade to Miami.
