Basketball is a game that moves quickly. Despite having a smaller court compared to baseball and football fields, players cannot afford to take it easy as they need to put effort into offense and defense. According to NBA's Advanced Stats, LaMelo Ball covers the most distance among all players, with an average of 2.77 miles per game. Fred VanVleet is a close second with 2.76 miles.
Basketball players must maintain good physical condition to play significant minutes, but injuries are common due to the long regular season. Failure to stay fit can result in reduced playing time or an early end to a player's career. Father Time ultimately prevails despite a player's desire to delay the inevitable.
Although these players have had lengthy NBA careers, they are no longer at peak performance. Retirement after the 2022-23 season is likely due to their decreased contributions and limited court time. Nonetheless, their younger teammates should take advantage of their vast experience and learn from their wisdom.
1. JaVale McGee
During the 2019-20 season, the University of Nevada's center averaged 12 points and 7.5 rebounds per game while playing for the Los Angeles Lakers. Fast forward three years later, he currently plays for the Dallas Mavericks and only receives limited playing time, with an average of 4.2 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 0.3 assists. The Mavericks are well-equipped in the position with Christian Wood and Dwight Powell.
Should this mark the retirement of McGee's NBA journey, it would be a remarkable culmination of the career of one of the league's most celebrated supporting players. Although it may slip our minds, he has earned three NBA championship titles by fulfilling his role on those teams.
2. Thaddeus Young
During the 2020-21 season, Young was honored with the NBA Hustle Award due to his impressive hustle statistics, such as his ability to take screens and dive for loose balls. Although this recognition is a positive outcome, it is worth noting that Young came close to achieving a double-double (15.1 points, nine rebounds) during the 2015-16 season with the Brooklyn Nets.
Despite being praised as a versatile player on offense and defense, the 16-year veteran's performance has noticeably declined during his second season with the Toronto Raptors.
He is only averaging 4.4 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game as of March 11. Despite being listed on the active roster, he has not played due to the strong presence of Scottie Barnes, Pascal Siakam, Jakob Poeltl, Chris Boucher, and Precious Achiuwa.
3. George Hill
ge Hill is among the NBA players who should consider retiring. The 36-year-old point guard has played for eight teams, including two stints with the Pacers. He was part of the franchise from 2011 to 2016, contributing to 55 playoff games. While Hill hasn't been a major contributor in recent years, his veteran presence is valuable to a young Pacers team. His experience can guide the team's rising stars. If Hill decides to retire, he'll do so in his hometown of Indianapolis.
According to recent reports, Hill has expressed his desire to continue playing basketball and has no plans to retire anytime soon. However, if he does decide to hang up his jersey, he has made it clear that he would like to end his career as a member of the Pacers.
Hill has been a shining example of a basketball ambassador in Indianapolis for over ten years and has become an iconic figure in the city. His contributions to the sport and the community will always be remembered.
4. LeBron James
At 38 years old, with 20 seasons under his belt and playing for the Los Angeles Lakers, I believe it's time for LeBron James to consider retirement. Although I know this opinion may not sit well with his devoted fans, I think it's essential for the king to step down soon.
Don't get me wrong; I greatly admire him as one of the greatest players in NBA history. However, I believe retirement in 2023 is the best course of action. LeBron's legacy is already secure, and he has achieved unparalleled success in his career, including becoming the all-time leading scorer. He has nothing to prove on the court, and it's time to focus on his personal life and other endeavors.
LeBron's longevity is commendable as he takes great care of his body and maintains a strict workout/health routine to stay in the game. Despite minor injuries in recent seasons, he remains a productive player.
However, signs of a decline are apparent, and the Lakers seem unlikely to contend for a championship. If he retires now, he can avoid becoming a role player and being overshadowed by younger players. Despite this, LeBron's competitive spirit and desire to play alongside his eldest son, who will be NBA eligible in 2024, may keep him in the game until then. He is under contract with the Lakers until that same year and remains one of the highest-paid players in the league. Nevertheless, retiring would be a better decision for his legacy.
5. Goran Dragic
Dragic has been chasing an NBA championship since he became a part of the league in 2008. However, his wait might end in 2023 if he joins the Milwaukee Bucks after being waived by the Chicago Bulls. Nevertheless, he could face a challenge in securing a spot in the point guard rotation due to the presence of Jrue Holiday and Jevon Carter.
As Dragic's prime basketball years are now a thing of the past, he should consider retiring. His performance in the 2022-23 season was lackluster, with only 6.2 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game, which pales compared to his career highs.
Despite not winning a championship, he has had a successful career. In 2014, he won the NBA Most Improved Player award and was included in the All-NBA Third Team. Additionally, he was named the Most Valuable Player in the 2017 FIBA EuroBasket and was a one-time NBA All-Star.