Before the season, Andre Drummond declared he’d be a free agent this offseason. The implication: He’d be so valuable, he’d be worth more on the open market than his $28,751,774 player option.
About that…
After a strong start, Drummond showed inconsistent energy and focus as the Pistons struggled. Detroit tried to trade Drummond but found a tepid market. Ultimately, the Pistons dealt the center to the Cavaliers for a paltry return just to avoid his player option.
Drummond on his player option, via “Le Batard & Friends – STUpodity":
Drummond didn’t outright say he’d opt in. He could still opt out contingent on re-signing for a lower salary next season but more overall compensation.
Yet, as was evident to everyone sensible, that lucrative player option is Drummond’s ticket to maximizing his income.
That was probably true before the coronavirus pandemic. It’s even more true with revenue way down and the salary cap likely stagnating.
The Cavs will get another year with Drummond, who is an incredible rebounder and could complement guards Collin Sexton, Darius Garland and Kevin Porter Jr. … at least if Drummond tightens up his defense.
If he opts in, the pressure will be higher on Drummond next season. Unlike this season, there’s no fallback. He’d be an unrestricted free agent in 2021, a limited – but often effective – center in a league overstocked with players like that.
Though he’s better than most players of his type, Drummond’s biggest separation comes with that $28,751,774 slated salary.