After completing a successful season as a backup center for the Golden State Warriors, 36-year-old veteran Jermaine O’Neal believed his playing days were over, opting to pass on re-joining the team and strongly considering retirement after a long 18 seasons in the league… That is, until now.
In wake of the Rajon Rondo trade, O’Neal is contemplating one final run with Dallas, the city where he currently resides and has long hoped to play for ever since becoming a free agent over the summer, according to Marc Stein of ESPN.
The Mavericks are in desperate need of a backup big man, (Since Brandon Wright was shipped to Boston in part of that blockbuster Rondo trade) and a player like O’Neal could be just the type of player they’re looking for to provide some depth in their frontcourt.
Last season, O’Neal was a key contributor for the Warriors in their second unit, averaging 7.9 points and 5.5 rebounds in 20.1 minutes a game.
The veteran did struggle with injuries, being limited to just 44 games, but as long as he remains relatively healthy, he could be the final piece Dallas needs to ensure they’re strong contenders in the Western Conference.