Milwaukee Bucks big man Bobby Portis has declined his $3.8 million player option and is set to test the waters in free agency, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.
Milwaukee Bucks F Bobby Portis is declining his $3.8M player option and will become a free agent, his agent Mark Bartelstein of @PrioritySports tells ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 31, 2021
It's also important to note the Bucks can only offer him a max of $5.9 million due to salary cap limitations.
As @BobbyMarks42 says, the most Bucks can offer Portis is the $5.9M exception.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 31, 2021
With that being said, it's understandable why Portis is exploring his options in search of a hefty payday. After all, he emerged as a key piece of the Bucks' championship squad, averaging 8.8 points and 5.0 rebounds in the postseason while playing strong defense. He also dropped 16 points in Game 6 of the NBA Finals.
There should be no shortage of suitors for the former Chicago Bull. $5.9 million isn't a lot for a player like Portis who has proven to be worth a lot more. While the Bucks have made it clear they want to keep him around, it will be tough due to their financial situation.
Milwaukee signed him to a two-year, $7.4 million deal in November with a player option, hence his decision. After a breakout year where he put up 11.4 points and 7.1 rebounds per contest, Portis could be one of the most coveted role players in free agency, which begins on August 2nd.
It will be interesting to see where Portis ends up, but he will leave as a loved figure by the Milwaukee faithful if the 27-year-old does in fact depart.
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