Nerlens Noel had a few more days before he needed to make a decision regarding his 2019-20 option, which would keep him in Oklahoma City for one more year. But it turns out he just couldn’t wait.
Noel’s one-year player option was worth $1.99 million and he had until June 29 to decide on whether or not he’d pick it up. According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, Noel will not pick up the option in order to become a free agent instead. Noel had an immensely efficient season for the Thunder in 2018-19, despite only playing 13.7 minutes per game.
However, Noel electing to become a free agent does not mean he’s leaving the Thunder. Charania is also reporting Noel will “discuss a possible reunion” with the Thunder.
Though, as much as the Thunder may want Noel back, they may not be able to afford him with Oklahoma City’s lack of cap space. They could give him a significant pay increase with their mid-level exception, but that could prove even more costly than the designated $5.7 million that would go to Noel.
