Lakers’ Metta World Peace said Magic Johnson informed him he’s probably not returning

Fans react to the tear of 3 pointers that Los Angeles Lakers forward Metta World Peace #37 rained down on New Orleans in the 4th quarter. The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 108-96 at Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA. 4/11/2017 Photo by John McCoy/Los Angeles Daily News (SCNG)

EL SEGUNDO — Instead of waxing nostalgia about his longevity, Metta World Peace said Magic Johnson revealed one thing in his exit meeting.

“They’re probably not going to bring me back,” World Peace said.

That news is not entirely surprising. The 37-year-old World Peace spent the past two years serving as a mentor while averaging only 2.3 points on 27.9 percent shooting in 6.4 minutes through 25 appearances. Though World Peace ended likely his last Lakers’ home game scoring a season-high 18 points on 7-of-17 shooting on Tuesday against New Orleans, the Lakers shifted more priority on developing their younger players.

Still, this could mark the end for World Peace, who had become a fan favorite after helping the Lakers win the 2010 NBA championship.

“Magic said he ‘s probably not going to bring me back. But it was good. I had a nice time,” World Peace said. It’s simple. We talked about the season and everything, not too complicated. They appreciated what I brought to the table, working with the rookies and working hard every day. I appreciated them giving me a chance to play. That was fun. That was great.”

World Peace spoke calmly in a matter-of-fact tone, but he sounded more subdued than usual. World Peace, who completed his 17th NBA season and 18th overall professionally, has often said he wants to play at least two more years professionally to reach the 20-year mark. Though World Peace did not formally shut down those hopes, he sounded unsure of what happens next.

That included where World Peace would try to play overseas after competing in the 2014-15 season in China and Italy.

“We’ll see. It’s hard to say right now because it’s only been a couple of hours since I’ve been back,” World Peace said. “I only talked for a couple of minutes. It’s hard to say right now. I’ll probably have some more information later.”

World Peace also did not sound sure if he would pursue any chance to join Luke Walton’s coaching staff.

“We didn’t talk about that yet. We’ll see,” World Peace said. “Right now, I’m going to go get some lunch. We got time. There’s no rush.”

World Peace sounded understanding in recent days that he would not have clarity on his future until late in the offseason, mindful that the Lakers’ rebuilding largely hinges on their NBA draft lottery fortunes and how they fare in the opening days of free agency. But World Peace said he “absolutely” appreciated Johnson’s honesty.

“He could’ve said it now; he could’ve said it September. It doesn’t really matter,” World Peace said. “If I have an opportunity, I’ll take advantage of it.”

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