Report: Randle won't exercise $9M option, will become free agent

New Orleans Pelicans forward Julius Randle will enter free agency this summer after choosing not to pick up his $9-million player option for next season, sources told The Athletic's Shams Charania.

Randle joined the Pelicans in July 2018 on a two-year deal after the Los Angeles Lakers renounced his rights following the end of the guaranteed portion of his rookie deal.

The 24-year-old had arguably the best statistical season of his five-year career in New Orleans. He averaged 21.4 points and shot 34.4 percent on 2.7 attempts from deep per game - all career highs. He also recorded 8.7 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 0.7 steals, and 0.6 blocks in 30.6 minutes per game.

Randle follows Kyrie Irving, Jonas Valanciunas, and James Ennis as players reportedly opting out of their contracts this summer.