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Jermaine O’Neal: ‘The time isn’t right for me to play now’

By Charles Rahrig V

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The 18-year pro Jermaine O’Neal isn’t ready to return yet

Jermaine O’Neal is one of the more attractive pieces to contending teams in need of a veteran big man with experience. It’s hard to argue with O’Neals experience, as he spent 18 years in the league and at one point was one of the most dominant big men in the NBA.

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It appears that after spending months trying to rehab his knees so that he could return at some point this season for a contender, that it will be not in the cards for O’Neal.

O’Neal last played last year for the Golden State Warriors and many thought at one point he was going to be a member of the Dallas Mavericks this season after he got healthy.

O’Neal posted on his Instagram account today that he isn’t ready to return yet, nor is he sure that he will, but he appreciates the encouragement that he has received from everyone.

"I’m not sure if there will ever be another time or not for me and basketball but what I do know at this moment is the time isn’t right for me to play now. But just know I gave everything I had these last 7 weeks and I greatly appreciate each and every one of you guys for the positive words of encouragement thru my process……"

For the Mavericks, it makes sense to move on from O’Neal, especially if they land Amar’e Stoudemire, who was just recently bought out by the New York Knicks.

If he can return next year healthy, then he could be of help for a team looking for a veteran big man near playoff time.

If this is indeed the end for O’Neal, then it was a good career that spanned 18 years and several playoff appearances for the six-time All-Star who was known for his time in Portland and Indiana.

[H/T: SI]

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