Dirk could play next season: 'It depends on how the body feels'

Dallas Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki may not be ready to call it quits just yet, despite being celebrated on a nightly basis as if he's on his farewell tour.

Nowitzki says he's undecided about retirement, and an opportunity to play alongside the young duo of Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis next year could be tempting.

"I think I'm going to make that decision later on, but I think the future's bright. I think Luka and KP, if they stay healthy, stay together, they should be a great combo," the 40-year-old said after the Mavericks' 110-101 win over the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday, according to ESPN's Tim MacMahon. "They should play great off each other. Both have an incredible skill set for their size, incredible playmaking ability for their size."

"I'd love to be there for the young guys one more year, but I think it depends on how the body feels," he added. "I've had some issues, obviously, this year. I had some knee swelling here the last few weeks, actually before the All-Star break, so it's not all great."

Unlike Miami Heat star Dwyane Wade, Nowitzki didn't say the 2018-19 season is the grand finale of his prestigious career. However, it didn't seem like the 7-footer could still produce at a high level after his season debut was pushed to mid-December because of an ankle injury.

Fortunately for the German big man, he's now healthy enough to play extra minutes. Nowitzki has even earned a starting spot over the last three games, averaging 12.7 points and four rebounds during that stretch.

"I feel like I have a little more pep in my step," he said. "My legs and my wind are a lot better than (earlier in the season). I just feel better overall. I feel like I can actually contribute, whereas earlier I was struggling just to get up and down."

Nowitzki needs just 69 points to pass Wilt Chamberlain for sixth all time in career points.