Larry Sanders had cemented himself as one of the best rim protectors in the league before he prematurely walked away from the game. The former Milwaukee Bucks’ center cited things such as anxiety and depressions as reasons for his early retirement but left the door open for a future comeback.
That comeback may be coming soon. In an interview with Shams Charania of the Vertical, Sanders spoke about returning to basketball as soon as he feels his other goals have become established and stable:
“Once my art, music and passions off the court feel stable, I will look into coming back,” Sanders told The Vertical. “I still love basketball. I want stability around me, and part of my mindset to leave was not to put all my eggs in one basket.
“I feel highly valuable on any team. There aren’t a lot of people who can bring my game to a team. I still play basketball all the time, staying in shape. I will need to make sure the situation is right for me.”
Sanders, the former 15th overall pick in the draft last played in the 2014-15 season in only 27 games, playing mostly limited minutes. His per 36 minute numbers were great: 12 points, 10 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks.
Sanders had indeed established himself as a good player, but his lack of playing time due to injuries and suspensions made his effect on the basketball court minimal. However, if Sanders is ready to get back on the court, he will have suitors. He is still only 27 years old, potentially entering his athletic prime, and with the right amount of work, he could see himself become one of the best centers in the game again.
Sanders is smartly waiting for the correct situation, however. He is reportedly looking more towards a good fit than a quick payday, hoping to prove to the league again that he is a great player:
Larry Sanders understands he'll need to re-prove his value and regain trust of his new team. Looking for fit not short term payday.
— Steve Kyler (@stevekylerNBA) February 9, 2016
Whatever the case may be, Sanders will have several suitors. The team that immediately comes to mind is the Dallas Mavericks who have had interest in the big man for a long time. The Mavs have received huge production from Zaza Pachulia but they could look to get younger and better at that position soon.
Whichever team ends up signing Sanders will be taking a slight risk, but with seemingly endless cap space and low market value for the center, it could be a calculated one and one that could pay huge dividends.
