Report: Nets officials optimistic that Andrei Kirilenko will not opt out

Andrei Kirilenko, DeMar DeRozan
Andrei Kirilenko (AP)
Andrei Kirilenko (AP)

Per NetsDaily, Nets officials believe that Andrei Kirilenko will not opt out of his player option– a move that would keep him in Brooklyn for another year. The crafty role player’s future was in some doubt after an injury riddled season that often placed him on the bench in key moments.

Last summer, Billy King and the Nets convinced Kirilenko to take far less than market value and sign for the mini-MLE, a 2-year deal with a player option after the first. Given his often undefined role and lack of minutes without explanation, many believed the 12-year veteran might seek greener pastures.

Kirilenko only played in 45 games this season, averaging 5 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.6 assists over 15 minutes per game and slew of DNPs.

However, nothing is official and Kirilenko has until June 29th to decide. If he opts out, he’d become an unrestricted free agent.