He took his decision down to the wire, but Jameer Nelson has decided NOT to exercise his player option and will hit the open market on Sunday as an unrestricted free agent.

Hearing that Jameer Nelson ihas informed Magic he is opting out.

— Brian K. Schmitz (@MagicInsider) June 29, 2012

He was long believed to be leaning heavily towards opting out, and he had plenty of reasons to do so. Two main reasons stand out though.

1. Control of his own destiny (never underestimate this). And…
2. Money.

While Jameer will most likely not get a free agent contract worth what he would get paid next season in Orlando ($8M), he can guarantee his future in this league with a longer team deal and that lovely guaranteed multi-million dollar contract.

Even if he opts out, the Magic are still planning to fully pursue bringing back Jameer on a multi-year deal. Nelson has spent his whole career in Orlando and has expressed many times his desire to remain. All of that can quickly go out the door depending on a multitude of different scenarios involving free agency and of course any future Dwight-drama.

#Magic determined to keep Jameer Nelson because of his strong character, leadership and ability. Even if he opts out, Magic will pursue him.

— John Denton (@JohnDenton555) June 29, 2012

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