How does a rookie become an unrestricted free agent? For example, let's say Steph Curry wants to leave Golden State (imagine that ), is he an unrestricted free agent after he plays out his 4 year rookie contract (assuming GS exercises options for years 3 and 4)? Or can a rookie not become an unrestricted free agent?
1. Pressure the team to not pick up his 3rd year or 4th year option. Almost no chance there. 2. Sign the one yer tender for the 5th year rather than seek an extension or a RFA contract. 3. Finish 5th year and become an UFA. Alternatively, you could sleep with the owner's daughter and key the coach's car. That might speed things up. Honestly, there is a lot of pressure on young players to ink an extension after their 3rd year. Those 2 extra years on a rookie contract might not seem like a big deal, but the window of opportunity to sign for good money can rapidly close. Look at Nate Robinson. His chance at cash may be gone.
