Sacramento, California –
Jimmer Fredette might be seeing a new role in his NBA life.
The Sacramento Kings and guard Jimmer Fredette have completed a buyout of his contract, clearing the way for the former BYU sensation to become a free agent.
The Kings announced the agreement Thursday.
“This was a very tough decision, but we’re confident that the agreement reached today represents the most productive path forward, both for Jimmer and the Kings,” said Kings GM Pete D’Alessandro on the buyout. “Echoing a sentiment that everyone who knows him appreciates about Jimmer, he’s a tremendous person and a consummate professional. We thank him for the meaningful contributions he made to the team and in the Sacramento community. On behalf of an entire organization, we wish him nothing but great success in the future.”
Fredette’s Career
Fredette was drafted 10th overall in 2011 after dazzling at BYU, where he won The Associated Press’ player of the year award after leading the nation in scoring at 28.5 points per game. But ”Jimmermania” never took shape in Sacramento like the Kings had hoped, and the franchise’s instability didn’t help his cause.
The sides began talking about a contract buyout after the Kings couldn’t find any suitable takers before last week’s trade deadline.Through 41 games, Fredette is averaging 5.9 points (.475 FG%, .493 3pt%, .895 FT%), 1.1 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 11.3 minutes per game in 41 games off the bench. He has accrued career averages of 7.0 points (.416 FG%, .402 3pt%, .855 FT%), 1.1 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 15.0 minutes per game in 171 career contests with Sacramento.
Knicks Signing
The New York Knicks signed Earl Clark and Shannon Brown to 10-day contracts but the Knicks are reportedly much interested in Fredette.
Fredette will have the opportunity to choose his next destination.
B/R’s Adam Fromal outlined several potential suitors for Fredette’s services, but one skies above all the others.
ESPN’s Marc Stein speculated that Jimmer’s decision won’t revolve solely around winning but picking the best destination to grow—something the Kings seemed staunchly opposed to allowing.
New York’s 2014 campaign has been nothing short of heartbreaking for fans. The Knicks were 21-36 as of February 26, which means they’d have to go 20-5 the rest of the way in order to finish at .500.
There’s nothing NYK can lose by taking a chance on Fredette. And if they are able to ink a deal with the former BYU star, a new world will be opened.
The world…of Jimsanity.
— with reports from BleacherReport.com
