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NBA Free Agency 2018: 10 biggest player option decisions

By Sydney Robinson

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 09: A detail view of the Nike Lebron 15 sneakers worn by LeBron James
NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 09: A detail view of the Nike Lebron 15 sneakers worn by LeBron James /
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PHILADELPHIA,PA – FEBRUARY 10 : Austin Rivers #25 of the Los Angeles Clippers goes up for the layup against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center on February 10, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA,PA – FEBRUARY 10 : Austin Rivers #25 of the Los Angeles Clippers goes up for the layup against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center on February 10, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) /

9. Austin Rivers

At a potential $12,650,000 on the Clippers’ books next year, Austin Rivers’ option is worth about $4 million over the mid-level exception. Much like Kanter, most teams lack the cap flexibility to offer him a contract above that.

Depending on Rivers’ goals, he could opt-out to try and earn a larger contract on a one year deal, much like former teammate J.J. Redick. Although he may not receive the lofty $23 million the Sixers offered Reddick, a bubble team may try and keep their flexibility while attempting to lure a max contract their way the following season. Rivers’ confidence in his own ability to stay healthy and perform in an impactful manner depends on whether he can receive more than he is worth, then hit the open market again accepting a contract for likely far less annually.

Rivers’ desire to contribute to a winner may limit his mobility as a free agent if he decides to opt-out. After taking a major leap this year averaging a career-high 15.1 points per game, he holds some momentum approaching this decision. The starting position will continue to be his in L.A. after fighting his way up NBA depth charts for years.

At 25-years-old, inking a 3-year deal places him at 28, perfect timing for one last major contract. Waiting a year, Rivers is less likely to receive a 4-year deal on his next contract assuming he continues his upward trajectory. Likewise, if he accepts this player option, the value is higher this year than he may likely receive, but it may impact his future earnings.

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