Nicolas Batum, the widely popular French forward, declined his $4.9 million player option with the Clippers and reportedly will become a free agent. It is believed that the NBA veteran will negotiate a new deal to stay in Los Angeles.

Nicolas Batum declined his $4.9 million player option for the 2025-26 season with the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday, per ESPN's Shams Charania, although it appears the door is open for a return.

There's mutual interest between Nicolas Batum and the Clippers in a new deal together after the veteran forward opted out, sources told ESPN.