NBA Rumors: Lakers, Marcus Smart, Clippers, Bennedict Mathurin, Nets

Lakers

Lakers guard Marcus Smart is officially headed to free agency.

According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, the veteran guard is declining his $5.39 million player option after rebuilding his value with LA last season.

Smart started 54 games while reestablishing himself as one of the league’s top perimeter defenders, then elevated his play during the postseason when injuries thrust him into a larger role.

The former Defensive Player of the Year is expected to draw plenty of interest on the open market, with the Rockets continuing to be viewed as one of his most serious suitors. A reunion with coach Ime Udoka has been widely discussed.

Meanwhile, center Deandre Ayton has exercised his $8.1 million player option, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania, keeping him under contract for at least another season.

That doesn’t necessarily mean Ayton will finish the year in LA. His expiring contract could still emerge as a trade chip if the Lakers look to reshape the roster later this offseason.

Clippers

The Clippers are keeping control of several young pieces.

According to Law Murray of The Athletic, Los Angeles has tendered a qualifying offer to Bennedict Mathurin, making him a restricted free agent.

The organization has also issued qualifying offers to Jordan Miller and Kobe Sanders after declining each player’s team option with the expectation of negotiating new multiyear contracts.

The moves suggest the Clippers remain committed to developing their younger talent even as questions surrounding Kawhi Leonard‘s future continue to dominate the offseason.

Nets

The Nets continue locking in pieces they believe can be part of the future.

Brooklyn is declining the team options on Day’Ron Sharpe and Josh Minott in order to sign both players to new multiyear contracts, according to multiple reports.

Sharpe is expected to receive a two-year, $20 million deal after emerging as an important frontcourt contributor, while Minott is reportedly agreeing to a two-year, $9 million contract.

The Nets also exercised their team option on guard Malachi Smith, who impressed after joining the rotation late last season.

Even after completing those moves, Brooklyn is expected to remain one of the few teams with significant salary-cap flexibility entering free agency.

MORE HOOPS | NBA free agents by position