Reports: Nets not extending qualifying offers to Chris Chiozza, Mike James

Adrian Wojnarowski and Mike Scotto report the Nets are not extending qualifying offers to back-up point guards Chris Chiozza and Mike James, making them unrestricted point guards for the opening of free agency Monday.

The decisions follow word earlier Sunday that the Nets had extended Reggie Perry to a $1.49 million qualifying offer, officially making him a restricted free agent. He will play in the NBA Summer League starting next week. Earlier in the weekend the Nets had extended a QO to Bruce Brown, meaning the Nets will be able to match any offer.

Both Chiozza and James were playing on vets minimum deals. Chiozza joined the Nets as a two-way player in 2019-20 and played in the “bubble” at Disney World. James was signed after leaving CSKA Moscow in March of this year following an altercation with his coach. He saw a lot of action late in the season when James Harden was out with a hamstring strain.

Neither decision will prevent the Nets from re-signing the two players if that’s their plan. James in particular could return.

The point guard depth chart includes James Harden and Kyrie Irving, backed up by Jevon Carter, acquired along with the 29th pick for Landry Shamet on Draft Night. Tyler Johnson’s situation is unknown. He is an unrestricted free agent. Neither Cam Jones nor Marcus Zegarowski, drafted at Nos. 20 and 49, are seen as point guards.

Spencer Dinwiddie, of course, is a free agent and the Nets have reportedly engaged in sign-and-trade talks, particularly with the WIzards. Bobby Marks reported late Sunday afternoon that if the Nets signed Dinwiddie to a contract worth $18.5 million in the first year, it would dramatically increase the luxury taxes Joe Tsai would have to pay next July.

The moves came as the NBA prepares for the opening of free agency at 6 p.m. Monday.