Elton Brand intends to play in the NBA next season, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports. "My body feels good," Brand said. "I'm already training for next season."

Brand intends to play in the NBA next season, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports. "My body feels good," Brand said. "I'm already training for next season."

Analysis:

The 34-year-old said he intends to return to the league for what would be his 16th NBA season, though he'll need to find a team, as he'll be an unrestricted free agent on July 1 after signing a one-year deal with Atlanta last summer. Brand played in 73 games last season (starting 15) and appeared in all seven of the Hawks' playoff games. He took on a larger role than expected after Al Horford was lost for the season with a torn pectoral muscle, finishing with averages of 5.7 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.2 blocks in 19.4 minutes. While it remains to be seen whether Atlanta intends to bring Brand back, he'll likely find plenty of suitors looking for a veteran defensive presence.