NBA: Metta World Peace ends run as Laker, not ready to retire

Metta World Peace has formally ended his run with the Los Angeles Lakers. The 37-year-old veteran was informed that he is not part of the team’s plans moving forward, ending his three-year stint in Hollywood.

Even at his age, Peace could still play a year or two. The only problem is landing a job with other NBA teams. With plenty of younger players holding the same position, Peace could best take his act overseas. He did have previous stints in China and Italy, meaning he could revisit those opportunities once more, Lakers Nation reports.

Metta World Peace thanked the Lakers for the opportunity via Twitter, showing no hard feelings on the new direction of the embattled franchise. The Lakers do have a young core to deal with, begging to ask if the NBA veteran would be open to a coaching job. Among the players he could help toughen up include Julius Randle, Larry Nance Jr. and Brandon Ingram.

Right now, any move placing Peace under coach Luke Walton’s wing remains to be seen. There is also the question of whether Peace is ready to hang up his sneakers.

Back in November, Peace and Dallas Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle were frequently in touch when coaching was repeatedly discussed. Carlisle believes Peace could do well as a coach, pointing out his basketball knowledge and passion for the game.

However, Peace also mentioned he did not want his current conditioning to go to waste, the Orange County Register reports. While the dish was made in November last year, a lot has changed since then. He was hardly utilized by Walton, so his conditioning and timing are suspect.

Regardless, Peace could try things out then decide on his next move. He could attempt for a slot in the international scene and take it from there.

Pursuing a coaching career could be a tough task for the man formerly known as Ron Artest. He could start by joining the coaching staff of NBA teams and hope he gets the chance to be head coach someday.

If not the NBA, he could check out opportunities in the high school or college scene. Most NBA coaches went that route, so Peace could sharpen his coaching skills there.

Best known for his colourful nature and physical antics, Peace’s exit from the Lakers may in fact be temporary. He could return in some capacity, or maybe not. Either way, Peace has achieved most things an NBA player aims for. That includes being an NBA champion with the Lakers back in 2010.