The last dance! No more, veterans are welcomed to the NBA farewell season, goodbye, French Pippen

Recently, Los Angeles Clippers veteran Nicholas Batum officially announced in an interview that he will execute the player option worth $4.9 million next season, revealing that this is likely to be the last season of his career.

"It's very, very likely! As for what I will do after retirement, I don't have any specific plans yet." The 37-year-old French striker said. From a billion yuan "trash contract" to a key puzzle for the playoffs, Batum wrote a 17-year career backlash legend.

As the 25th first round pick in 2008, Batum's career starting point was full of drama - he was immediately sent to the Trail Blazers after being selected by the Rockets, which started his "wandering journey".

started firmly in the rookie season, averaging 10+3+3 per game in the second year of his career, with a three-point shooting percentage of up to 40.9%, becoming a top scorer in the league. He scored in double digits in eight times in the first 10 seasons. In 2016, he even renewed his contract with the Hornets for 5 years of $120 million, but was labeled as a "trash contract" due to injuries and tactical discomfort.

But Batum was never bound by definition. After joining the Clippers, he completed the transformation from "high salary burden" to "winning the championship puzzle".

This season's regular season, he played in 78 games, hitting a career high of 43.3% from three-pointers; facing the Nuggets in the playoffs, he averaged 5.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2 assists per game, and sent 1.7 blocks against the Nuggets. The data confirms his value: during the playoffs, when Batum was on the court, the Clippers lost 8.3 points in 100 rounds.

What is even more admirable is that Batum also made great achievements in the international arena. After leading the French men's basketball team to win the Olympic silver medal in 4 World Cups, 4 European Cups, and 4 Olympic Games, he announced his withdrawal from the national team: "I did everything I can!" Now, he will leave his final peak to the NBA stage. The execution of the $4.9 million option means refusing to return to the basic salary. This confidence comes from the irreplaceable nature he proves with his strength.

For the Clippers, Batum's stay in the team is key. President Frank bluntly stated that "the first priority in the offseason is the stay and departure of Harden and Batum", which is enough to illustrate its importance.

Despite the limited cap space of $4.9 million, his defensive coverage, three-point shooting and locker room leadership are the essential puzzles for the Clippers to hit the championship.

From a young rookie at the age of 18 to a 37-year-old court veteran, Batum is about to leave with a total salary of $210 million, 1,131 regular season resumes and numerous glory.

Next season, let us witness the last dance of this French legend. No matter what the outcome, his basketball wisdom and professional spirit have long surpassed the data itself.