/cdn.vox-cdn.com/photo_images/5825176/20120301_ter_ah7_026.jpg)
The offseason has now officially become a story for the Philadelphia 76ers. Lou Williams, the team's third-leading scorer with 11.5 points per game, has opted out of his contract to become a free agent, according to Philly.com .
Williams was a key contributor to a team just one game away from the Eastern Conference Finals. He was vital coming off the bench and providing a spark.
While Williams is on the market, the Sixers still hold some bargaining power if they want him back. Philly can offer a five-year deal to Williams while the other 29 teams can only offer four under the collective bargaining agreement.
The 25-year-old is a valuable asset, but if the Sixers feel he can't be brought back at a reasonable price it might affect their draft strategy. Jrue Holiday is doing a nice job at the point, but the bench is dangerously thin without Williams to provide solid minutes.
Add Williams to the list of intriguing free agents that hit the market on July 1.
For more on the Sixers, please be sure to visit our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.