Free agent Desmond Mason won't be returning to the Oklahoma City Thunder next season.
Mason's agent, Roger Montgomery, confirmed to The Associated Press on Wednesday that talks between the nine-year NBA veteran and the Thunder had broken down and the two sides wouldn't be agreeing on a new contract.
Mason had expressed his desire to return to Oklahoma City after a knee injury forced him to miss the second half of last season. Montgomery says the two sides weren't able to agree on a role for Mason, who still wants to make significant contributions instead of simply being a mentor for younger players.
General manager Sam Presti called it a "difficult decision," but said the Thunder wanted to allow Mason to pursue other opportunities.
(This version CORRECTS APNewsNow. SUBS 2nd graf to correct to Wednesday.)
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