Benny Sieu-USA Today Sports
On Monday morning, news emerged that Monta Ellis has officially made the decision to opt out of the final year of his contract with the Milwaukee Bucks. Ellis has reportedly informed the team of his decision.
With Ellis’ decision, the 6-foot-3 shooting guard instantly becomes one of the top targets in this year’s free agent class. Ellis, who had one year, $11 million remaining on his deal with the Bucks already turned down a potential contract extension with the team. That failure to reach an agreement ultimately prompted what Monday’s news confirmed.
In all, this move certainly comes as no real shock. Ellis wants to find a better, long-term scenario and reports indicate that he is very close with fellow free agent target, Dwight Howard. This automatically puts Ellis in a situation that will include plenty of potential suitors. Among them include the Atlanta Hawks, Dallas Mavericks and potentially the Los Angeles Lakers, albeit a west coast combo is probably unlikely simply because it would have to come via a sign and trade scenario. The Philadelphia 76ers may also be an option, as Ellis would be an ideal fit alongside Jrue Holiday and Evan Turner in the Philly back court.
Ellis will surely be targeted by others, but those are just a few names to keep an eye on at this time. Free agency in the NBA begins on Jul. 1.
Ellis has become one of the more consistent scoring threats in the NBA over the past few years. This, after being drafted in the second round of the NBA Draft back in 2005. Ellis averaged 19.3 points per game this past season in Milwaukee.
Follow Paul Seaver on Twitter: @PaulSeaverRS
