What happened: The Charlotte Hornets declined the fourth-year team option on forward Tidjane Salaun ahead of Monday's deadline. Oklahoma City similarly bypassed the 2027-28 option on guard Nikola Topic. The NBA shifted the option deadline to Monday because Oct. 31 did not fall on a business day.

Why it matters: Bypassing the fourth-year options relieves both front offices of guaranteed salary commitments for the 2027-28 campaign to preserve cap flexibility. The move positions both young players to test the open market in July 2027 rather than remaining under team control for a fourth year. Topic remains out following lower back surgery as Oklahoma City manages its rotation.

What to watch: Each player will complete the 2026-27 campaign on their guaranteed third-year salaries before entering contract talks. Topic continues his rehabilitation process as the Thunder navigate their upcoming schedule.