Nets power forward Wilson Chandler will be eligible to return to action after Saturday’s game against the Raptors as his 25-game suspension for violating the NBA’s drug program will conclude.
However, in the months leading up to his impending return, the veteran wasn’t sure it would ever happen.
In a detailed feature, ESPN’s Malika Andrews spoke to Chandler about his time on the sideline, serving his suspension. Chandler, 32, admitted he considered retirement.
“You start to think about, ‘Is it really worth it?'” Chandler said. “Not because you don’t want to play, but because you’re in a dark place.”
Chandler explained the process of finding out about his suspension and immediately reaching out to management, teammates, family and friends. At times, the well-traveled veteran secluded himself. But the Nets always saw him as part of the team this season and even waived veteran Iman Shumpert this week as Brooklyn needed the roster spot.
Now, Chandler is preparing for his season debut and that’s his focus.
“You know, I’m a little nervous. It’s been a while since I’ve played,” he said.
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