Nick Young opts out of Los Angeles Lakers contract

Los Angeles Lakers star Nick Young has opted out of his contract to become a free agent in the hope of signing a more lucrative and long-term deal.

The 29-year-old averaged a career-best 17.9 points per game last season, and the Los Angeles native was a popular figure with fans despite the franchise's dismal year.

"Nick Young has informed the Los Angeles Lakers that he will not pick up his player option and will become a free agent," his agent Mark Bartelstein told ESPN.

The Lakers have been linked with a move for both LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony this summer, which would mean the end of Young's stay at the Staples Center.