Cartier Martin opts in with Pistons

Dec 6, 2014; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons forward Cartier Martin (35) during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Philadelphia 76ers won 108-101 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 6, 2014; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons forward Cartier Martin (35) during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Philadelphia 76ers won 108-101 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

Shams Charania of RealGM:

"Detroit’s Cartier Martin has exercised his $1.3M option for 2015-16 season, league source tells RealGM. Filed notice to Pistons last week."

This was Martin’s best option.

He’ll make $1,270,964 next season – $947,276 from the Pistons and $323,688 from the NBA. The amount the Pistons pay him will serve as his cap number.

Martin signed with the Pistons last summer, and it seemed curious the Pistons need to give him a player option for his second season. Now, they’re paying the – relatively modest – price.

I hoped Martin could become a rotation-level 3-and-D player, but he was neither last year. Maybe that changes this season if he’s healthier and working with a shooting coach.

More likely, the Pistons waive him to clear a roster spot and Martin happily collects his guaranteed salary.