(Jason) Maxiell, who signed a four-year, $20 million extension right before the 2008-09 season, has a player option for next season where he could become a restricted free agent.

If he did so, he’d leave $5 million on the table.

“It’s an option,” Maxiell said after the Pistons’ 116-77 win over the Cavs on Tuesday night. “Right now, I’m trying to finish the season strong, but when the time comes, it comes.”

While he’s unlikely to get $5 million a season from another team, long-term security could be in mind for the 29-year-old forward and now could be just as good a time as any to hit the market.

“That could be the smart thing to do, but Detroit’s my home and the security I have with them could be great for next season,” said Maxiell, who’s married and a father of an infant son. “But again, I had a great year but the time hasn’t come yet.”