Restructuring Rudy's contract

[KG4Ever]

I am interested in whether a player with a player option like Rudy has in 2025-26 can turn down an option and take less than the option salary but get more years. If so, can anyone cite an example or two. I also wonder if its fair game for Rudy's agent and the Wolves brass to discuss his willingness to turn down his player option to get a new contract with more money spread out over more years to help the team stay under the second apron. I'm just nervous based on the Joe Smith handshake deal that bit us in the back.

[KG4Ever]

Does anyone know if Khris Middleton, Draymond Green and/or James Harden turned down options to help their team out, with the hope (or promise) of getting a longer term deal?

[Phenom]

Harden did something to that effect. This seems to be part of his issue with Morey. He took less in the belief that the team could sign PJ Tucker with the savings and supposedly was going to make it back in his next deal with Philly, which didn't happen.

[Monster]

This is what Chris Paul did when he was with the Suns.