What happens to a player classified as a restricted free agent when a second-round tender is issued?

When a player is classified as a restricted free agent and receives a second-round tender, it allows for a specific scenario in which the player has options for negotiating with other teams. Under the terms of a second-round tender, the player can negotiate a contract with any team, which enables them to seek potentially better opportunities.

If the player successfully negotiates a contract with a different team, the original team has the right to match that offer. If the original team chooses not to match the offer, they are entitled to receive a second-round draft pick as compensation from the team that signed the player. This mechanism is designed to provide both opportunities for the player to explore the market and safeguards for the original team to maintain some level of compensation in case they lose the player.

This process benefits the player by giving them leverage to secure a favorable contract while ensuring that the original team retains some rights and potential value in the event of a departure.