With the San Antonio Spurs 2017-18 campaign coming to a disappointing close after a first-round playoffs loss to the Golden State Warriors, the franchise faces many questions heading into a pivotal offseason.
Though many of their concerns have to be centered around Kawhi Leonard and his future with the organization, the potential retirement of veteran big Pau Gasol was also a question mark. However, not even a few days into the Spurs’ offseason we seem to have an answer. Gasol told reporters that he has no plans of retirement and hopes to play at least 3-4 more years.
.@paugasol : No retirement plans. I am planning to play 3-4 more years @spurs pic.twitter.com/dBjEx9vxCp
— TrendBasketEN (@TrendBasketEN) April 25, 2018
For a journeyman 37-year-old who’s playing time has been very limited in recent years, another 3-4 years may be slightly optimistic. Pau Gasol has always been one of the better offensive big men the game has had to offer but as he gets up there in age, his tendency to get bullied inside only increases.
Though Gasol still has his smooth outside stroke as a part of his arsenal, his three-point percentage dropped from a scorching 53.8 percent last year to sub 36 percent this year. Gasol has never been a stellar athlete to begin with and now in the final stages of his career, his jumper will have to be sharper than ever if he hopes to maintain for another few years.
Gasol was still holding down a large role with the Chicago Bulls but his trade to the Spurs two seasons ago relegated him to a role off the bench. Gasol has been heavily involved but could see that change next season and beyond as he continues to age. Gasol remains under contract with San Antonio for the next two years as he plays out his 3-year, $48M contract.
