Veteran forward Nicolas Batum is set to hit free agency.
According to ESPN, the Los Angeles Clippers forward has declined his $4.9 million player option for the 2025-26 NBA season. However, this isn’t necessarily a goodbye — there’s mutual interest between Batum and the Clippers in negotiating a new deal.
At 36, Batum remains a valued glue guy and versatile wing defender, bringing playoff experience and leadership to a retooling Clippers squad. While the financial terms of a possible new deal are still unknown, Batum’s on-court IQ and locker room presence make him a likely candidate to return on a team-friendly contract.
The move could give LA more flexibility while keeping a key vet in the mix.