Oshae Brissett declines player’s option to become a free agent: The report originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston
The NBA offseason has officially begun, and while the Boston Celtics bask in the afterglow of Banner 18, there is still business to be done.
Celtics wing Oshae Brissett declines his $2.5 million player option for the 2024-25 season and will become an unrestricted free agent this summer, Spotrac’s Keith Smith reported Sunday.
Brissett still has the option to re-sign with the Celtics in free agency, but can now seek offers from the 29 other teams in the league. It’s a logical move for Brissett, who should be able to make more than $2.5 million per year on his next deal, even if it’s with Boston.
Brissett signed with the Celtics in free agency last summer after three seasons with the Indiana Pacers. The 26-year-old played sparingly in Boston — he averaged just 3.7 points over 11.5 minutes per game in the regular season — but still impressed in his brief stints by providing rebounding, hustle and defensive intensity.
For example, in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals, Brissett came off the bench after a slow Celtics first quarter and provided an immediate spark, grabbing three rebounds and three steals in his twelve minutes of playing time to help Boston soar to a high. 126-110 win over the Pacers.
“He’s playing with such a high level of intensity and energy. It’s big for us,” head coach Joe Mazzulla said after the game.
If the Celtics feel comfortable with the development of 2023 draft pick Jordan Walsh, they might let Brissett sign elsewhere. But the team could certainly benefit from his presence on the bench if the price is right.
Teams can begin negotiating with free agents on Saturday, June 30, with free agency officially beginning on July 6.
