
Forward Paul Pierce will not exercise the final year of his contract with the Washington Wizards and will become a free agent, USA Today reported on Saturday.
Pierce was due to make 5.5 million next season. By opting out, Pierce can either sign a deal for money with the Wizards or explore an opportunities with other teams.
Reportedly, Pierce is interested in the Los Angeles Clippers because he grew up nearby in Inglewood, Calif., and would be reunited with coach Doc Rivers, who he played for with the Boston Celtics.
The Wizards, who expected this move from Pierce, can offer him a 20 percent raise and pay him $6.6 million next season.