Peter Vecsey reports via twitter that Nets guard C.J. Watson will opt-out of his contract for the 2013-2014 season:
C.J. Watson plans 2 opt out of contract (1.1M) 2 become UFA. Meaning Nets in market 4 point able 2 get shots 4 Deron when they team up…
— Peter Vecsey (@PeterVecsey1) June 9, 2013
Watson had a player option of $1,106,942 (the minimum salary) for next season. On May 21st, it was reported that Watson was switching agents to Excel Sports (the Nets player rep of choice).
Likely, Watson and his new agency feel the backup point guard would garner a larger contract than the minimum salary next season, and will likely scan the market this summer for a larger contract.
It is still possible that Watson could re-sign with Brooklyn: the Nets hold Watson’s non-bird rights, meaning that the most they could retain him for would be 120% of the minimum salary in 13′-14′.
Watson, whose missed dunk in game 4 vs. the Chicago Bulls was the beginning of the end for the Nets in the playoffs last season, averaged 6.8 points in 19 minutes per game during the regular season, shooting a career high 41.1% from three-point range.
If Watson signs elsewhere, it leaves the Nets with just one backup point guard for next season: 2nd year man Tyshawn Taylor. Though some mock drafts have had the Nets taking University of Miami point guard Shane Larkin with the 22nd overall pick in this year’s draft, it’s likely that the Nets will attempt to find another veteran for the minimum salary.
