Orlando Magic forward Mario Hezonja was one of seven former first-round picks who had their 2018-19 team options formally declined on Tuesday.
Philadelphia 76ers backup center Jahlil Okafor is part of this group and has already asked for a buyout, which was rejected by general manager Bryan Colangelo. Hezonja spoke about his situation and at this time won't follow Okafor's game plan.
"It's not going to change anything," Hezonja told the Orlando Sentinel. "I'm still going to be working hard on my game, still come in with the same mentality: just trying to get even better."
Hezonja has struggled since the Magic selected him with the No. 5 pick in the 2015 NBA draft, and a new situation is needed to jump-start his career.
"It's a little bit weird because I wasn't playing in two years," Hezonja said.
If the Magic don't trade Hezonja, he will leave next summer as an unrestricted free agent.
Through seven appearnces this season, Hezonja is averaging 11.9 minutes, 3.9 points and 2.0 rebounds.
-- Nick Silva
