Bobcats' Diaw picks up $9M option

Charlotte Bobcats forward Boris Diaw has exercised his player option for next season that will pay him $9 million. Agent Doug Neustadt said Tuesday they informed the Bobcats of the decision earlier this week. Diaw said after the season that with the potential labor uncertainty this summer, it was a ''no-brainer'' to pick up the option and avoid becoming a free agent until 2012. The move comes after owner Michael Jordan criticized Diaw's play in the 2010-11 season. Diaw, who was nearly traded twice last season, could be a potential target to be moved as Jordan seeks to revamp Charlotte's roster. The 29-year-old Diaw averaged 11.3 point and 5 rebounds last season.