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Report: Collison considering NBA return with Lakers or Clippers

Maddie Meyer / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Veteran guard Darren Collison is considering a February return to the NBA, with the Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers emerging as his two preferred destinations, league sources told ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

Both teams would need to clear a roster spot to accommodate the former first-round pick. The Lakers and Clippers can offer Collision the prorated minimum, and the former can also use a $1.75-million disabled player exception, according to ESPN's Bobby Marks.

Collison was one of the better 3-point shooting point guards available in free agency, but he chose to retire following the 2018-19 campaign to focus on his family and faith.

However, many contenders have remained in touch with Collison's agent in case he has a change of heart, sources told Wojnarowski.

The 32-year-old averaged 11.2 points on 46.7% shooting - including a 40.7% mark from distance - across 76 appearances for the Indiana Pacers last season. It was Collison's fourth straight season shooting at least 40% from downtown.

The UCLA product could alleviate some of the ball-handling responsibilities that LeBron James takes on while currently serving as the Lakers' starting point guard.

If he joins the Clippers, Collison would be a reliable playmaking guard to plug into their rotation. He's also familiar with the club and head coach Doc Rivers after serving as Chris Paul's backup during the 2013-14 season.

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