Spurs' Cedi Osman: Buyout Now or Sign Extension in Free Agency?

San Antonio Spurs forward Cedi Osman is a free agent at the end of the season.

The San Antonio Spurs will have a decision to make regarding the future of Cedi Osman this summer. 

Osman was added via trade this past summer from the Cleveland Cavaliers and will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. An understated offseason acquisition, his steady hand on offense has provided a spark off the bench. 

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Osman, 28, is averaging 7.1 points per game so far this season with the Spurs, but he has been one of the team's most consistent players, playing in every game so far this season for San Antonio.

While he is having the statistically worst season since his rookie campaign in 2018, that can be chalked up to a lack of minutes. His efficiency has not taken a dip, and his per 36 stats suggest he is just as good in Cleveland as he is in San Antonio. The Spurs are just prioritizing youth and development over Osman, so he will likely sign elsewhere once he hits free agency.

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This season has shown the league what it already knew: Osman is a solid offensive threat off the bench, but he is not much more than that.

Perhaps the Spurs could look to part ways with him now by agreeing to a buyout, but given the fact that he's been such a consistent part of the team, it seems unlikely even if he isn't part of San Antonio's plans beyond the season. If the Spurs choose the buyout route, they will have until March 1 to do so in order for Osman to be eligible to sign with a new playoff contender.