10 Retired Players That Could Still Play In The NBA

The NBA is a league of legends. With so many retired players, it’s hard to believe that there are still some who could play in the league today. Here are 10 retired players that could still play in the NBA.

The oldest nba player ever is a retired player that could still play in the NBA. These players are all over 50 years old and have been retired for at least 10 years.

10 Retired Players That Could Still Play In The NBA

Every night, the NBA court is filled with tremendous talent, the most of whom are young or in their prime. But it doesn’t rule out the possibility of certain veteran players returning to the game, as some well-known stars may still play key roles off the bench in the NBA.

Here are ten NBA players that can still be counted on to play significant minutes for NBA teams right now, some of whom were All-Stars. While some of these players are unlikely to return due to their skill set, it is obvious that they would have a shot if they chose to.


Jeremy Lin (#10)

Jeremy Lin Posts Long Facebook Message After Failed NBA Comeback Bid

ESPN

When the Asian-American point guard performed like a star for the New York Knicks in 2012, “Linsanity” swept the country. During “Linsanity,” Lin averaged 14.9 points per game and 6.2 assists per game during a 35-game span, establishing his value as a starting point guard.

Lin’s career did not last long, however, as he was plagued by injuries and a lack of playing time before retiring from the league. Lin is a professional who understands the game, so if clubs need a backup point guard, they should contact him.


9. Vince Carter is an American singer and songwriter.

Vince Carter

Carter was relieved to retire from the NBA last year after completing his 22nd season at the age of 43. Carter belonged to an era when chasing superteams and rings wasn’t in his blood, and he’ll go down in history as one of the most entertaining players of all time.

The greatest dunker in NBA history may not be finished yet, as he may join the Brooklyn Nets or Los Angeles Lakers against his will for a chance to earn his first title. Winning a title at 44 would be the cherry on top of an incredible career.


8. O.J. Mayo

oj mayo

Image courtesy of Getty Images

O.J. Mayo was expected to be one of the foundation pieces of the Memphis Grizzlies organization with Rudy Gay, and it was one of the greatest what-ifs in recent memory. Despite being a fantastic scorer, he was never able to have an effect in the victory column.

In 2009, the former No. 3 overall selection finished second in the Rookie of the Year competition behind future MVP Derrick Rose, and his failure to persuade coaches that he deserved starter’s minutes harmed his career. Mayo was banned for two years in 2016 for breaching the Anti-Drug Program, but if he can show he can still shoot, he may be used by certain teams.


Darren Collison (#7)

(via NBA.com)

(Photo courtesy of NBA.com)

Collison unexpectedly ended his NBA career when he chose to devote his time and energy to his religion. Collison could return to the NBA if he really wanted to, despite the fact that his choice was supported by all of his peers.

Collison, who has lightning-quick handles and a good jumper, may be utilized as point guard by championship contenders in need of ball-handling and playmaking (hint: Los Angeles Clippers). Collison’s career averages are 12.5 points per game and 5.0 assists per game, with a 39.4 percent three-point shooting percentage, so he’ll have plenty of suitors if he returns.


6. Michael Beasley is an American actor.

(via Hoops Rumors)

(Photo courtesy of Hoops Rumors)

Michael Beasley was one of the most divisive players of the last two decades, with an abundance of skill but dubious behavioral characteristics. Beasley, the No. 2 overall selection in 2008, was expected to be a star for the Miami Heat.

He never quite made it, but he was still useful as a scorer off the bench. Beasley averaged 12.4 points per game throughout the course of his professional career, which he spent with seven different clubs and included a couple trips to China. Beasley will continue to get attention from all around the league as long as he can score.


Mario Chalmers, No. 5

Mario Chalmers

Mario Chalmers, a former NBA champion, was a solid point guard for the Miami Heat until his career was hampered by injuries during the ” Big Three ” period. Chalmers has a lifetime average of 8.9 points per game and 3.7 assists per game while shooting 35.1 percent from three-point range and a respectable 1.5 steals per game.

Chalmers was a solid defender in his day and may still provide depth to a club in need. His time is running out since he is 35 years old, but he will always be prepared in case he is called for a tryout.


4. Wade, Dwyane

Dwyane Wade

Dwyane Wade, a three-time NBA champion, would be the biggest story in the NBA if he returned. Wade is still in excellent condition and has the ability to overtake the bulk of the league, based on what we’ve seen from his televised appearances.

Wade may be 39 years old and blissfully retired, but he is still capable of playing baseball. If he wants another ring or to offer leadership, the future Hall of Famer can always sit on the bench for championship contenders, like he did with Donovan Mitchell during this year’s playoffs.


Joe Johnson, No. 3

(via NBA.com)

(Photo courtesy of NBA.com)

Iso Joe is one of the greatest one-on-one scorers of his time. Johnson had a spectacular talent as an All-Star, and many consider him to be one of the greatest clutch players of all time. With the Hawks and Nets, he was a member of seven All-Star teams and was most recently a member of Ice Cube’s Big Three.

Because he is “just” 40 years old, Johnson will always be a fantastic scorer until the day he can no longer walk across the floor. While Johnson would struggle to defend today’s youthful athletes, he can still get a bucker or two when necessary, and teams may give him a chance in that respect.


Ray Allen is number two.

MIAMI, FL - NOVEMBER 09: Ray Allen #34 of the Miami Heat attempts a free throw during a game against the Boston Celtics at American Airlines Arena on November 9, 2013 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christopher Trotman/Getty Images)

Getty Images/Christopher Trotman photo

Ray Allen, one of the best shooters in NBA history, was born to shoot the ball. He could probably outshoot the bulk of NBA players today, even at 46 years old. He was that good, scoring 18.9 points per game while shooting 40.0 percent from beyond the arc throughout his career.

For NBA fans who grew up seeing “Jesus Shuttleworth” fire his way to championship rings, seeing Ray Allen in a Celtics or Heat jersey would bring back memories. Allen could easily average 1.0 made three a game as a spot-up shooter alongside superstars, which makes him very valuable.


1. LaMarcus Aldridge is a basketball player who plays for the Los Angeles Lakers.

NBA Players React To LaMarcus Aldridge's Surprising Retirement

LaMarcus Aldridge, a seven-time All-Star, is reportedly close to returning to the NBA. His NBA career was cut short by a surprise retirement before the playoffs last year, but doctors have cleared him to return to professional basketball.

The Brooklyn Nets signed him to help them win the championship, but they were unable to do so due to Aldridge’s departure. If the big man returns to Brooklyn, Kevin Durant, James Harden, Kyrie Irving, and Blake Griffin will have another All-Star player to lead them to the NBA Finals in 2022.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What NBA player has retired the most?

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has retired the most NBA players, with 19.

Who is the oldest NBA player right now retired?

The oldest player in the NBA is Robert Parish, who retired at age 50.

Who retired in the NBA 2020?

 

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