The Mavericks have elected not to exercise their option on Pops Mensah-Bonsu, meaning the 6-9 forward will become a free agent Saturday.

The team had until today to guarantee Mensah-Bonsu's contract for the upcoming season. That would have cost the team $687,456. By letting his contract expire, it means any NBA team can claim Mensah-Bonsu off waivers, although that seems unlikely as they would be responsible for his full salary this season.

The Mavs' decision clears the way for Mensah-Bonsu to play in Europe this season, president of basketball operations Donnie Nelson said.

"Pops wants to go somewhere where he can play," Nelson said. "And this keeps our options open if we want to try to get him back in the future."