Nicolas Batum Declines Clippers Option: Top Free Agent Destinations

By Edcel Panganiban July 24, 2025 12:25

Nicolas Batum, the veteran forward for the Los Angeles Clippers, has opted to decline his $4.9 million player option for the 2025-26 NBA season, making him an unrestricted free agent . While this decision makes him available to other teams, there is strong mutual interest between Batum and the Clippers for him to return on a new deal .

Batum, who will turn 37 in December, is entering his 18th NBA season and is widely expected to be nearing the end of his career . However, he continues to be a valuable asset due to his elite three-point shooting, versatile defense, and veteran leadership . In the 2024-25 season, Batum averaged 4.0 points and 2.8 rebounds in 17.5 minutes per game, shooting an impressive 43.3% from beyond the arc on 2.6 attempts per game . His three-point percentage was the best of his career, a testament to his ability to adapt his game .

His defensive capabilities were particularly noticeable in the playoffs, where his playing time increased to 24.6 minutes per game against the Denver Nuggets, and he averaged 1.7 blocks per game in that first-round series . This "three-and-D" skill set, combined with his 76 career playoff games and experience with the French Olympic team, makes him a sought-after player for contending teams .

Potential Destinations:

While the Clippers remain the most likely destination for Batum, as there's mutual interest in a new deal , his decision to test free agency opens the door for other contenders to pursue his services.

Los Angeles Clippers: The most probable outcome is Batum re-signing with the Clippers. He has stated his intention to stick with the franchise, and the team’s president of basketball operations, Lawrence Frank, has expressed "1,000 percent" eagerness for his return . Given their Non-Bird rights, the Clippers can offer Batum a contract starting at $5.6 million, or utilize a portion of their $14.1 million non-taxpayer mid-level exception for a larger deal . A report even suggests he plans to return on a two-year, $11.5 million contract with a team option for the second season .
Other Contending Teams: Batum's veteran leadership, shooting, and defensive versatility make him an attractive target for teams looking to add experienced depth. While his scoring numbers are no longer in double digits as they were earlier in his career with the Portland Trail Blazers and Charlotte Hornets, his efficiency and defensive impact make him a valuable role player . Any team with championship aspirations seeking a reliable wing off the bench could consider him.

Batum's decision to decline his option is part of a larger offseason picture for the Clippers, who are also awaiting a decision from James Harden on his $36.3 million player option . Regardless of where he ultimately lands, Nicolas Batum is poised to make a significant impact in what could be his final NBA season. As Batum himself stated after the Clippers were eliminated from the playoffs, when asked if he wanted to return: "If they want me to." . And it appears they do.