Hornets C Al Jefferson exercises player option for 2015–2016

Charlotte Hornets center Al Jefferson exercised his player option for 2015–2016 on Monday, securing his return to the organization as expected.

Charlotte Hornets center Al Jeffersonexercised his player option for 2015–2016 on Monday, securing his return to the organization as expected.

Jefferson’s agent, Jeff Schwartz, told ESPN.com over the weekend that he would notify the Hornets of Jefferson’s decision to opt in ahead of Monday’s deadline.

The 30-year-old will make $13.5 million next season, the last on a three-year, $40.5 million contract he signed with Charlotte in 2013, before hitting free agency.

Jefferson first said he did not expect to opt out of his contract in April, telling reporters he had “unfinished business” with the Hornets. The 11-year veteran averaged 16.6 points, 8.4 rebounds and 1.3 blocks over 30.6 minutes per game. He missed 17 games due to injury, but led the Hornets with 53 double-figure scoring games.

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The Hornets finished 33–49, missing the playoffs after exiting in the first round the season prior.

Over Jefferson’s 11-year career with the Boston Celtics, Minnesota Timberwolves, Utah Jazz and the Hornets, he has averaged 17.0 points, 9.1 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game.

- Mike Fiammetta