Nicolas Batum declines player option but likely to stay with Clippers
Mar 14, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; LA Clippers forward Nicolas Batum (33) warms up on the court prior to the game against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
Nicolas Batum (6’8″, 36 years old) has made a strategic decision by declining his $4.9 million player option to become a free agent, according to ESPN. This move by the 36-year-old French veteran is more about contract repositioning rather than a real departure from the Los Angeles Clippers.
Los Angeles Clippers forward Nicolas Batum is declining his $4.9 million player option for the 2025-26 season to become a free agent, sources tell ESPN. There’s mutual interest between the NBA veteran and the Clippers in a new deal together. pic.twitter.com/mDyfBTzIGp
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 28, 2025
Mutual Interest for Immediate Re-signing
Despite declining the player option, ESPN sources confirm there is mutual interest between Nicolas Batum and the Clippers for a new contract. This re-signing could happen as early as the first hours of free agency, which begins this Monday.
Clippers’ President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank had clearly expressed his intentions before the offseason: the team hopes « 1000% » to see Batum return next season. This statement demonstrates the importance of the French player in the California franchise’s plans.
An Efficient 2024-2025 Season Despite Limited Playing Time
Although Nicolas Batum had one of his least productive statistical seasons (4.0 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in 18 minutes), his impact remains significant for the Clippers. The 6’8″ Frenchman played 78 games with eight starts, his highest total since the 2013-2014 season.
His contribution was particularly notable with his exceptional three-point shooting at 43%, unprecedented in his career. This offensive efficiency continued in the playoffs, where he shot nearly 40% from three on 4.7 attempts per game, while adding 1.7 blocks and 0.9 steals during the first-round loss to the Denver Nuggets.
Nationality:
Heading Towards 18th and Final NBA Season
Approaching his 18th NBA season, Nicolas Batum had already mentioned there was « a very, very good chance » that this next campaign would be his last. His defensive versatility and ability to space the floor with his quick three-point shot remain valuable assets for the Clippers, who count on his experience to support their ambitions.
After long stints with the Portland Trail Blazers and Charlotte Hornets, the two-time Olympic silver medalist with the French national team should conclude his career where he has thrived for the past five seasons.
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