Cooks opts out of Kings contract ahead of postponed free agency

It certainly won't break the heart of any Hawks fan after the Wollongong-raised star who was plucked straight out of the Snakepit by the Kings on a multi-year deal last season.

He emerged as a key figure in the Kings run at the title that was abruptly halted by the COVID-19 outbreak that saw the NBL grand final series abandoned and series leaders Perth crowned champions.

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It was a surprise development with the 24-year-old expected to return to Europe where he previously played with French club with SG Strasbourg.

The opportunity to explore his options came after a deal struck between the NBL and the ABPLA opened a brief window in which players could opt out of their domestic contracts.

Cotton was the highest profile player to take up that option, with the league's marquee talent looking at the largest pay cuts in a new pay deal as the league deals with the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.

It won't necessarily end Cooks' association with the Kings, who will retain his NBL rights for next season, with the Boomers prospect not ruling a return to league heavyweights.

"I would love to return to the NBL and win a championship for Sydney to finish what we started this year," Cooks said.

"Unfortunately, due to the changes in the league, my family and I feel like it's best for me to opt out of my current contract and explore my options.

"My agent will continue to communicate with the Kings throughout the off-season in the hope that a new deal can be reached."

It comes two days ahead of the May 4 deadline for players to opt out of their contracts, with Bullets big man Matt Hodgson another to exercise the out option.

Illawarra had young trio Sunday Dech, Angus Glover and Sam Froling under contract for next season before they were voided when the club went into voluntary administration.

It leaves them open to new offers when the postponed free agency period opens on July 1.