As expected, Shannon Brown declined to exercise the $2.4 million option on 2011-12, opting to terminate his contract with the Lakers in order to become an unrestricted free agent. General manager Mitch Kupchak said last week he didn’t believe Brown would exercise his option and remain with the team. Brown’s departure leaves an opening for a backup guard, which was why Kupchak selected guards with his first two picks in the draft last week. Darius Morris, taken 41st overall, and Andrew Goudelock, who was the 46th pick, could have a shot at making the roster next season. It’s also possible that Brown could re-sign a bigger and better deal with the Lakers, although it’s unlikely.

However, Brown can’t do much of anything until the labor disagreement between owners and the players is resolved. The owners planned to lock out the players when the current collective bargaining agreement expires at 9 tonight.