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Lakers decline option on Horry Posted: Monday June 30, 2003 9:28 PMEL SEGUNDO, Calif. (AP) -- The Los Angeles Lakers did not exercise their $5.3 million option for next season on forward Robert Horry's contract. Horry, who turns 33 in August, becomes a free agent Tuesday, meaning he can negotiate with any NBA team, including the Lakers. They could offer him a contract closer to the veteran's minimum salary of $1.4 million. "By not picking up this option, it gives us financial flexibility to pursue other free agents, which is important to us," Lakers spokesman John Black said Monday, adding the team remains interested in Horry. His agent, Robert Barr, did not immediately return a phone message. Horry spent 6 1/2 seasons with the Lakers and helped them win three consecutive NBA championships. But he struggled last season, averaging 6.5 points and missing 36 of 38 3-pointers in the postseason. Horry's last 3-point miss, at the end of Game 5 of the Western Conference semifinals against San Antonio, would have given the Lakers a victory and a lead in the series. Instead, the Lakers lost and the Spurs went on to win the NBA title. The Lakers plan to be active in the free agent market when the negotiating period begins Tuesday. They are seeking a power forward and a guard. Teams may sign free agents starting July 16. |
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