The NBA's deadline for teams to pick up third- and fourth-year options on rookie-scale contracts passed on Monday, with several notable decisions that will send promising players to unrestricted free agency next summer. The Oklahoma City Thunder declined the 2027-28 option on guard Nikola Topić, the Utah Jazz declined the 2027-28 option on guard Isaiah Collier, and the Charlotte Hornets declined the fourth-year option on forward Tidjane Salaün.
Thunder move on from Topić despite high draft pedigree
Oklahoma City selected Topić with the No. 12 overall pick in 2024, but he has yet to play a full season due to a torn ACL, testicular cancer treatment, and back surgery. He appeared in only 10 games last season, averaging 5.2 points, 1.9 rebounds and 4.4 assists per game. The Thunder's decision was driven by his lack of availability rather than performance, and with the team's current injury situation, Topić could earn significant minutes if he returns healthy. Declining the option allows him to showcase his value for unrestricted free agency.
Jazz decline Collier's option despite heavy minutes
Collier averaged over 25 minutes per game in each of his first two seasons and is currently leading the Jazz in minutes among non-starters at 18.5 per game through six contests. His 2026-27 stats show 7.4 points, 5.1 assists and 0.43 steals per game. Utah's decision may reflect a desire to pursue a veteran backup or to prioritize ball-handling roles for Keyonte George and rookie Darryn Peterson.
Hornets create flexibility with Salaün
Salaün, the No. 6 overall pick in 2024, had his fourth-year option worth approximately $10.4 million declined. His 2026-27 numbers are 4.7 points, 3.7 rebounds and 0.29 blocks per game. The move gives Charlotte the option to re-sign him at a lower salary if he does not meet that value, or to retain a productive player on a team-friendly deal. Salaün has shown improvement in a reduced role this season, and his combination of size, ball-handling and shooting makes him an attractive prospect for other teams if he reaches free agency.
