Draymond Green will decline his player option for the upcoming season and is set to become an unrestricted free agent, according to several media reports Monday morning.
Green, the do-it-all power forward who anchors the Warriors’ defense and helps run their offense, was set to make $27.6 million in the final season of his four-year, $99.7 million deal. NBA insider Shams Charania first reported the news.
Green had until Wednesday to make a decision, but the news comes just hours before newly appointed general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. is set to meet with reporters for his introductory news conference.
Klutch Sports founder and Green’s agent Rich Paul told ESPN that talks with the Warriors will remain ongoing; however, they plan to “explore all options.”
The move to opt out doesn’t come as a surprise but it allows Green to entertain options beyond Golden State while negotiating about the possibility of rejoining the Warriors on a longer-term deal.
Green averaged 8.5 points, 7.2 rebounds and 6.8 assists in his 11th season with the Warriors.
Negotiating with Green is one of several key topics for Dunleavy and the Warriors’ front office in the coming days, with Thursday’s NBA Draft looming and free agency opening July 1, as well as Klay Thompson eligible for an extension with the team.
