12. Rudy Gay
Gay has a $6.4 million player option for next season that he could pick up. The 36-year-old is not getting more money on the open market, so he would have to decline it to chase a championship. Gay has played just 19 playoff games in his 17-year NBA career, so odds are he stays in Utah next season.
If he decides to test free agency, do not rule out a return to San Antonio. Gay embraced a mentorship role with the Jazz this season, and he enjoyed his time in San Antonio.
The 6’8" forward signed with the Spurs in free agency in 2017, and he stayed for four years before departing for Utah in 2021. Gay averaged 11.9 points and 5.6 rebounds in 23.0 minutes per game during his time in San Antonio.
This season, the 36-year-old played the fewest minutes of his career. Rudy Gay wants to continue his career, but he is reaching the final stages. Would the veteran forward be interested in an end-of-the-bench role in San Antonio?
The Spurs have just ten players under contract for next season, and they could be looking for some veteran leadership. Is a reunion ahead? Expect Rudy Gay to accept his player option, but things could change.