Hornets' Josh McRoberts declines player option, will be free agent

The Charlotte Hornets announced Wednesday that playmaking power forward Josh McRoberts has declined his $2.8 million player option for the 2014-15 season, making him an unrestricted free agent.

McRoberts signed a two-year deal with the Hornets, then the Bobcats, this past summer but following an excellent season will now look to cash in with some greater long-term security.

Now 27 years old, McRoberts became a fulcrum in new coach Steve Clifford's offense, with his creativity from the high post and his floor-spacing proving key elements for the surprising playoff team. McRoberts averaged career-highs of 8.5 points, 4.3 assists and 30.3 minutes, adding 4.8 rebounds and shooting 36.1 percent on threes.

Any number of teams could be interested in the high-IQ Duke product, but the Hornets sure sound like they'll work to re-sign him. They'll have ample cap space to do so.