NBA free agency: Mike Muscala agrees to new contract to remain with OKC Thunder

Joe Mussatto, Oklahoman
·2 min read
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Mike Muscala is staying in Oklahoma City.

The Thunder declined Muscala’s $3.5 million team option for next season, which made Muscala an unrestricted free agent, but Muscala and the Thunder agreed to a new deal Thursday on the first night of free agency.

As first reported by Darren Wolfson, a Minneapolis-based TV reporter, Muscala signed a one-year deal on the veteran’s minimum to return to the Thunder.

It’s projected to be a $2.6 million deal, which saves the Thunder about $900,000 had the team simply exercised Muscala’s option.

Muscala is set to enter his fourth season with the Thunder, and he’s repeatedly expressed his desire to stay with the organization.

The smooth-shooting center turned 31 on Friday.

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“Best NBA gift he’s ever received is the genuine love and appreciation from OKC fans, players, coaches and management,” Muscala’s dad, Bob Muscala, tweeted.

Muscala, from St. Louis Park, Minnesota, will likely be a valuable mentor to Minneapolis native Chet Holmgren, the Thunder’s No. 2 pick in the draft.

Muscala had season-ending ankle surgery last season, but he proved he can still play.

He averaged 8.0 points and 3.0 rebounds in 43 games while shooting a career-high 43% from 3-point range.

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Mike Muscala agreed to a one-year deal on the veteran’s minimum to return to the Thunder.
Mike Muscala agreed to a one-year deal on the veteran’s minimum to return to the Thunder.

Thunder notes

► Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will play for Team Canada on Friday night in his hometown of Hamilton, Ontario. Canada will face the Dominican Republic in a World Cup qualifying game.

► Thunder teammate Lu Dort is in camp with the Canadians, but the Montreal native won’t play Friday night. He’s still rehabbing from a season-ending shoulder surgery.

► Melvin Frazier Jr., who ended last season on a two-way contract with the Thunder, will play for the Timberwolves in Summer League. The Thunder now has an open two-way slot with Frazier gone. Lindy Waters III still occupies the other two-way slot.

► Also playing for the Timberwolves in Summer League? Former Thunder wing Deonte Burton. Burton hasn’t played in the NBA since the 2019-20 season. Burton most recently played for the Maine Celtics in the G League.

Tramel: Ten years ago, Thunder hosted the NBA Finals; when will they return to OKC?

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: NBA free agency: Mike Muscala signs new contract with OKC Thunder