Lakers' Shannon Brown Opts Out Of Contract, Per Report

Shannon Brown Opts Out Of Lakers Contract, Team Announces

Late Thursday afternoon the Los Angeles Lakers officially announced that backup shooting guard Shannon Brown has decided to pursue free agency. Brown elected to opt out of the last year of a contract that would have paid him $2.37 million for the 2011-2012 season.

The explosive 25-year old had become a fixture in the Lakers' rotation since the franchise acquired him from the Charlotte Bobcats in 2009. Brown played in all 82 games with Los Angeles during the 2010-2011 season, averaging 8.7 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.2 assists. Well known for his spectacular in-game dunking ability, the Michigan State alum participated in the 2010 Sprite Slam Dunk Challenge, finishing in third place.

Amidst a free agent class short on impact players, it's likely that the offensively-gifted Brown will have quite a few suitors once the lockout reaches its conclusion. Championship pedigree is a hard thing to come by in the NBA, and the respect that is derived from the two rings around his fingers should translate over to his next venture.

For reaction on Shannon Brown's departure and how the Lakers will proceed from here, be sure to visit Silver Screen And Roll.

Lakers' Shannon Brown Opts Out Of Contract, Per Report

As expected, Los Angeles Lakers backup guard Shannon Brown will opt opt out of his contract and pursue free agency. This according to Brad Turner, who spoke to Brown's agent.

Brown had one year remaining on his contract, which would have paid him $2.37 million.

The move is no surprise to the Lakers, who were already moving forward without him at the recent NBA Draft:

"My guess, and it's only a guess, is he will choose not to extend one more year," Kupchak said during the NBA draft last week at the Lakers' practice facility in El Segundo. "Not knowing the answer to that at this time, we're probably going to look to add a player to our backcourt."

The Lakers drafted two guards, 6-foot-4 Darius Morris and 6-foot-3 Andrew Goudeluck. 

According to Browns' agent, the Lakers are in the mix for his services.

Brown played in every game for the Lakers this past season, averaging 8.7 PPG, 1.2 APG and 0.8 SPG.

For more on Brown and how the Lakers will proceed, keep an eye on Silver Screen And Roll.