Paul Pierce is reportedly close to finalizing his decision whether or not he will still play in the NBA. But, according to insiders, he might return to the Los Angeles Clippers for one more season.
Pierce officially joined the Clippers on 2015 after opting of his contract with the Washington Wizards. The Los Angeles franchise then offered him a three-year contract worth $10 million, which he agreed to.
During his first season with the Clippers, he actively played for the team and recorded over 45,000 minutes on the court for his entire career in the NBA. However, despite one of the team's most vital players, his status for the upcoming 2016-2017 NBA season became uncertain.
But, according to insider Brad Turner, Pierce is considering returning to the Clippers next season. If he does, then it will be marked as his 19th season in the NBA.
Paul Pierce is planning on returning to the Clippers for the 2016-17 season, his 19th in the NBA, per source.
— Brad Turner (@BA_Turner) July 27, 2016
As pointed out by Fan Sided, Pierce still has two years in his contract with the Clippers. If he returns next season, then he is entitled to receive $3.5 million. However, if he decides to play in the 2017-2018 season, he will only receive the guaranteed $1 million out of the $3.7 million in his contract.
But money matters aside, Pierce has previously said that there are other factors that he's considering regarding his potential comeback. As noted by the athlete, he's not happy with the role he's been given during his first year with the Clippers.
Aside from this, he's also concerned about his age. By October this year, Pierce will turn 39 years old. At this age, he's now more prone to injuries. This could also be the reason why the Clippers decided to reduce his role.
"I thought I had one more good year (this past season), but obviously I didn't like how it all went with my role," he told the Boston Globe. "I'm still just trying to figure it out. A lot has got to do with my role I'm going to play. To come back and sit 82 games, I don't know if I can do that."
