The Celtics’ Marcus Thornton isn’t the only second-round pick forgoing an NBA contract to play overseas next season.
Aaron White, whom the Wizards selected No. 49 overall, is headed to Germany.
White could have forced the Wizards’ hand by accepting the required tender, a one-year contract (surely at the league minimum and unguaranteed) a team must offer to keep its rights to draft picks. If he had done that, Washington might have waived him after training camp – allowing White to sign with any NBA team. Even if he had to go overseas this season, he’d have more leverage upon his return.
But he probably agreed before the draft to forgo the required tender in exchange for being picked. Less likely but still possible, he agreed after the draft in exchange for the promise of a more-favorable contract next year.
Either way, after White plays in Germany this season, Washington will have exclusive bargaining ability with him among NBA teams. That’s a nice advantage for the Wizards, especially because they won’t have to pay him or use a roster spot on him this year.