The NBA's rookie-scale extension deadline, typically on Halloween, was pushed to Monday this year due to the weekend. While most team options are routine, several notable decisions were made that will send promising players to unrestricted free agency next summer. The league's increased financial caution under the new aprons has forced teams to make tough calls on young players before their futures are fully clear.
Thunder decline option on Nikola Topic
Oklahoma City declined the 2027-28 option on Nikola Topic, the No. 12 overall pick in 2024. The decision stems not from poor play but from a lack of playing time: Topic missed his rookie season with a torn ACL, most of his second season due to testicular cancer treatment, and has yet to play this season because of back surgery. He holds career averages of 5.2 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. The Thunder's injury situation could give Topic significant on-ball opportunities if he returns healthy, allowing him to showcase his value before free agency.
Jazz move on from Isaiah Collier
Utah declined the 2027-28 option on Isaiah Collier, who averaged over 25 minutes per game in each of his first two seasons. Through six games this season, Collier leads the team in minutes among non-starters at 18.5 per game, posting 7.4 points, 5.1 assists, and a .43 steal percentage. The Jazz may be seeking a veteran backup or aiming to minimize investment in ball-handlers to prioritize Keyonte George and Darryn Peterson.
Hornets decline Tidjane Salaun's option but keep reunion path open
Charlotte declined the fourth-year option on Tidjane Salaun, the No. 6 overall pick in 2024. His option salary would have been approximately $10.4 million. The Hornets can still re-sign him in free agency up to that amount, creating a potential win-win: if Salaun underperforms, they can retain him at a lower rate; if he excels, they gain a productive wing or a valuable trade asset. Salaun's minutes have decreased each season, but he is playing better in a smaller role this year, averaging 4.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 0.29 blocks per game.
