The NBA's deadline for teams to exercise rookie-scale contract options, typically on Halloween, was pushed to Monday this year due to the weekend. While most first-round picks have their options picked up, several notable declinations occurred, setting up interesting unrestricted free agency scenarios for next summer.
Thunder decline option on Nikola Topic
Oklahoma City declined the 2027-28 option on guard Nikola Topic, the No. 12 overall pick in 2024. Topic has barely played due to a torn ACL in his rookie season, testicular cancer treatment in his second season, and back surgery this season. The Thunder, who averaged 66 wins in his first two seasons, faced limited minutes for him. Declining the option gives Topic the chance to prove himself this season and enter free agency next summer, potentially benefiting both parties.
Jazz move on from Isaiah Collier
Utah declined the 2027-28 option on guard Isaiah Collier, who averaged over 25 minutes per game in his first two seasons. Despite playing 18.5 minutes per game off the bench this season, the Jazz surprisingly declined his option. The team has cap space but may re-sign restricted free agent Brice Sensabaugh or use a mid-level exception. Collier, once the No. 1 high school recruit, remains a talented playmaker whose scoring and defense have not yet matched expectations.
Hornets decline Tidjane Salaun's option but keep path open
Charlotte declined the fourth-year option on forward Tidjane Salaun, the No. 6 overall pick in 2024. His option salary would have been approximately $10.4 million. The Hornets can still re-sign him in free agency up to that amount, creating a win-win: if he doesn't meet that value, they can sign him cheaper; if he does, they get a productive player or trade asset. Salaun's minutes have decreased each season, but he is playing better in a smaller role this year, showing physical traits and willingness that teams value.
