Jermaine O'Neal: 'The time isn't right for me to play right now'

Contenders looking to add veteran depth at center will likely have to strike Jermaine O'Neal off their lists.

O'Neal was on the comeback trail and was linked to the Dallas Mavericks, among other playoff teams, but posted the following to Instagram Monday:

O'Neal attached the following message to his post.

I'm not sure if there will ever be another time or not for me and basketball but what I do know at this moment is the time isn't right for me to play now. But just know I gave everything I had these last 7 weeks and I greatly appreciate each and every one of you guys for the positive words of encouragement thru my process.

Last season, O'Neal played 44 games with the Golden State Warriors. He wasn't particularly effective on offense, posting just 7.9 points and 5.5 rebounds, but provided a steadying force on defense as a decent rim protector.

Given O'Neal's 18 NBA seasons and that he'll turn 37 next season, a return to the league seems highly unlikely. If so, O'Neal ends his career with six All-Star appearances along with averages of 13.2 points, 7.2 rebounds and 1.8 blocks.