For a veteran player to be eligible for the designated veteran player extension, which of the following must be true?

For a veteran player to be eligible for the designated veteran player extension, it is essential that he is entering his 8th or 9th season in the league. This requirement acknowledges the importance of a player's established performance and longevity in the NBA, allowing teams to retain key players who have demonstrated consistent excellence over a significant span of time.

The extension is designed to provide additional financial security for veteran players who have reached a certain level of achievement, which is typically reflected in their years of experience and contributions to the game. Thus, by specifying the 8th or 9th season, the rule emphasizes both the player's veteran status and their potential value to the franchise moving forward.

Other options do not align with the criteria for the designated veteran player extension. For instance, having zero seasons remaining on one's contract is not a requirement; rather, the extension is intended for players who still have contract years left but are looking to secure a longer deal based on their veteran status. Additionally, being traded multiple times or currently being an All-Star does not specifically relate to this eligibility criterion, as the extension applies to a broader category of veteran players based on years of service rather than their trading history or current accolades.