From CBS Sports · · 1m 30s
NBA Teams Decline Rookie Options Ahead of Deadline
Thunder, Jazz, and Hornets move on young players as NBA rookie-scale deadline approaches.
In brief
Thunder, Jazz, and Hornets move on young players as NBA rookie-scale deadline approaches. Oklahoma City Thunder declined Nikola Topic's option, Utah Jazz moved on Isaiah Collier, and Charlotte Hornets have a path to re-sign Tidjane Salaun after their fourth-year option was dropped. Originally reported by CBS Sports.
NBA Deadline Pushed to Monday
The NBA moved its rookie-scale contract deadline from Halloween to Monday due to the end of October falling on a weekend.
Phoenix Suns' Jalen Smith Example
The Phoenix Suns declined Jalen Smith's option in 2021, who later became a key player for the Chicago Bulls.
Thunder Decline Nikola Topic
Oklahoma City Thunder declined Nikola Topic's 2027-28 option because he hasn't played much due to injuries.
Topic's Injury History
Topic missed his rookie season with a torn ACL, then missed most of his second season treating testicular cancer, and has not played this season due to back surgery.
Thunder's Opportunity for Topic
If Topic returns, he could get significant minutes with the Thunder, who have the best player development track record in basketball.
Jazz Decline Isaiah Collier
Utah Jazz declined Isaiah Collier's option despite his high minutes and role as a backup point guard.
Collier's Role with Jazz
Collier averaged over 25 minutes per game in his first two seasons, but the Jazz are now moving on him for next season.
Hornets' Path for Tidjane Salaun
Charlotte Hornets have a path to re-sign Tidjane Salaun after declining his fourth-year option, with a potential salary of $10.4 million.
The key point
Oklahoma City Thunder declined Nikola Topic's option, Utah Jazz moved on Isaiah Collier, and Charlotte Hornets have a path to re-sign Tidjane Salaun after their fourth-year option was dropped.
