D'Angelo Russell's $6 Player Option and Washington Already Said, 'Don't Even Report!'

Hold up, hoops fans, because the NBA offseason just got a whole lot weirder, and honestly, you won't believe some of the stuff coming out. While everyone's been focused on the big names turning down options to chase that free agency bag, D'Angelo Russell just did something that'll make you double-take, and it basically screams, "Washington doesn't even want him in the building!"

The Wildest Player Option You'll See All Year, Probably Forever

Seriously, get this: NBA insider Jake Fischer dropped the bomb that Wizards point guard D'Angelo Russell picked up his player option for next season. But not for millions, not for even a few hundred thousand. Nope. Russell took a mind-boggling $6 player option. You read that right. Six. Dollars.

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Now, if you're scratching your head wondering when D'Angelo Russell even wore a Wizards uniform, you're not alone, and it's for a good reason. He arrived in Washington from Dallas as part of the Anthony Davis trade, but here's the kicker: the Wizards told Russell he didn't have to report to the team. So, by mutual agreement, he just sat out the entire season! This $6 move is purely about getting paid what's owed on his contract, but it's crystal clear he's not in Washington's future plans. They've already got Trae Young and Bub Carrington running the point, and the draft is right around the corner where they could snatch up another playmaker. Don't be surprised if Russell's name is all over draft night trade discussions or buyout talks. It's a truly bizarre situation for a player who literally never suited up for his current team.

KCP's Expected Pick-Up Sets Up Trade Buzz

While Russell's situation is straight out of a bizarre sports movie, there was another player option picked up that, while less dramatic, is setting the stage for some serious trade talk. Shams Charania reported that Memphis wing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is grabbing his $21.6 million player option. This wasn't a shocker, really, because KCP simply wasn't going to find an offer that sweet anywhere else on the open market.

Caldwell-Pope has those two championship rings, a legit 3&D pedigree from his days with the 2020 Lakers and 2023 Nuggets, but let's be real, the 33-year-old's game has definitely seen better days. Over the last couple of seasons, his production, especially his once-reliable 3-point stroke, has tapered off. Last season with the Grizzlies, he played in just 51 games before finger surgery in February ended his season, averaging only 8.4 points per game and shooting a chilly 31.6% from beyond the arc. With that expiring, good-sized contract, you can bet KCP's name is going to be front and center in a ton of trade rumors as the Grizzlies look to shake up their roster. These guys are on the move, one way or another!

So, as the NBA offseason whirlwind picks up speed with draft night looming, keep your eyes peeled. Whether it's D'Angelo Russell's unprecedented $6 move paving the way for a trade or KCP becoming a key piece in Memphis's roster overhaul, it's clear things are about to get wild. Buckle up, Seattle, because these decisions are just the beginning!

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.