The Phoenix Suns have exercised their $8.1 million team option on guard Vasilije Micic, a move viewed as a key step in facilitating a draft-night trade with the Charlotte Hornets centered around center Mark Williams.
By picking up Micic’s option, the Suns ensured his salary could be included in the trade package, helping balance the financials required under NBA trade rules.
Initially, many believed Phoenix would opt to decline the option on Micic’s contract, especially amid reports that the Serbian guard had been receiving strong interest from several EuroLeague teams.
His future in the NBA seemed uncertain, and a return to Europe appeared possible.
However, with the trade now sending him to the Hornets and his $8.1 million salary locked in, Micic’s short-term future will remain in the NBA – at least for now.
What Charlotte plans to do with him remains unclear: whether they intend to keep the 31-year-old playmaker in their rotation, use him as a trade asset, or even allow him to explore overseas options despite the guaranteed contract.
The situation is fluid, but for the moment, Micic finds himself back with the team that originally acquired his NBA rights.
Suns Exercise $8.1M Team Option For Vasilije Micic https://t.co/rQPhg3dbVs
— RealGM (@RealGM) June 29, 2025
