Former Los Angeles Lakers guard Patrick Beverley doesn't inspire a lot of fond memories for the L.A. fan base. Memories come flooding back of the undersized defender getting abused defensively, only to race back up to the other end and take a shot that Beverley had no business attempting, while fans could only watch in horror.
Perhaps this is the reason Beverley is now finding himself at a career crossroads of sorts. Now a free agent, the former Laker recently noted on his podcast that he might be forced to hang up his cleats if he doesn't land a new contract soon.
"If I don't play basketball soon, I'm going to retire," Beverley said.
As usual, the guard is a step behind, not understanding that his retirement happened the moment he opted to make his podcast more important than doing a postgame presser. Beverley got into an argument with a reporter during the 2024 NBA playoffs for not subscribing to his podcast, and it's been downhill from there. Beverley's presence is now more of a distraction than a bonus, and it seems like the rest of the NBA is getting ready to move on.
Former Lakers G Patrick Beverley Nearing Retirement Due to Lack of Options
Beverley's recent offseason beef with Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young only adds to why NBA teams likely aren't rushing to blow up the ex-Laker's phone. Why bring in a piece who could be a distraction or make waves on his podcast if things don't work out throughout the season? There simply are more downsides to adding the once fierce defender than there are positives.
For the Lakers, there is zero thought or consideration of a reunion with Beverley based on how things went the first time around. It wasn't a fit, and now it's a role they've already filled, bringing in former Boston Celtics star Marcus Smart as a reclamation project. Having Beverley anywhere close to the Lakers simply isn't an option based on how the season went in his last tenure.
It seems that retirement is only a matter of time for Beverley. He never dazzled offensively, and his defense only noticeably declined in recent years. Father Time is undefeated, and it looks like he's ready to meet with the former Lakers guard.