NBA Rumors: Richaun Holmes, Wizards Agree to 2-Year, $25.9M Contract amid Kuzma Buzz

Richaun Holmes will remain with the Washington Wizards despite reportedly declining his $12.9 million player option on Saturday.

Holmes declined his player option to sign a new two-year, $25.9 million contract with Washington through the 2025-26 season, per The Athletic and Stadium's Shams Charania.

Homes had until June 29 to make his decision on the option.

Holmes averaged 7.1 points and 6.1 rebounds per contest in 17 games and eight starts for the Wizards after his midseason trade from the Dallas Mavericks.

The veteran center was in and out of the lineup due to toe injuries and missed the final two weeks of the regular season during his first stint with the Warriors.

When healthy, Holmes replaced center Daniel Gafford in the starting lineup. Gafford started all 45 games and led the team in blocks and rebounds prior to going the other way in the trade with the Mavericks.

Although Holmes could not match Gafford's defensive numbers, he was able to provide the rebounds the Washington bench needed when center Marvin Bagley III was injured.

The Wizards will now be able to bring back both Holmes and Bagley, who averaged a career-high 8.1 rebounds per game in 2023-24.

Their ability to maneuver the pick and role will help increase the Wizards' chances of making a playoff bid for the first time since 2021 next season.