It has been a rough year health-wise for Dallas Mavericks superstar Dirk Nowitzki. The 2011 Finals MVP has played in just five games all year due to a strained right Achilles. The team has reflected his struggles, being tied with the Philadelphia 76ers at 6-19 for the worst record in the league. And recently, the 38-year-old hinted that he could very well be on the verge of retirement.
“If things don’t go so well and it hurts everywhere, it could be that 2017 will be the end, Dirk Nowitzki told German magazine Sport Bild. “Actually my plan is to complete the 20 years and play for Dallas until 2018. But just because I have signed a two-year contract doesn’t automatically mean that I will play for two years. It could happen next year.” Nowitzki is reportedly planning to talk with the Mavs’ bosses at the end of the season to discuss his playing future.
Dirk Nowitzki last played on Nov. 25 in a 128-90 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers. In his limited time on the floor, he has averaged 12.2 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. According to the Dallas Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle, Nowitzki is expected to be out at least four more games. The team, though, has not put a specific timetable for the sweet shooting big man’s return.
Dirk Nowitzki has been with the Dallas Mavericks for 19 seasons, averaging 22 points, 7.9 rebounds and 2.5 assists in his stellar career. He is signed through the 2017-2018 season, with the Mavs owing him $25 million in the last year of his current deal. Last season, Nowitzki averaged 18.3 points and 6.5 rebounds, leading the Mavs to an improbable playoff appearance.
Dirk Nowitzki has made the All-Star team 13 times in his career. He has both a regular season and Finals MVP award under his belt.
Source: Yahoo Sports
