NBA Rumors: Rondo Plotting Future, Using Hawks Stint As Step Toward Coaching, Exec Position

Rajon Rondo knows that time is ticking, and he appears to be sticking around for as long as there is interest among NBA teams. Coming off a successful NBA title campaign, the 34-year-old finds himself with the Atlanta Hawks, a rebuilding team.

In the minds of most, the move is a bit strange. After proving his leadership and playmaking with the Lakers, it would have made sense for him to stay on and possibly get his third NBA ring. However, he needs just compensation.

The Hawks offered him a two-year deal worth $15 million. That is a hefty increase compared to the $2.56 million he got last season with the Lakers. The purple and gold never made him an offer. It could have been something equal to that or a tad lower.

Regardless, the fact here is that the Lakers did not make an offer. The book on that was closed when the Lakers traded Danny Green to the Oklahoma City Thunder and took in the younger Dennis Schroder, who is 27 years old.

It remains to be seen if the contract Rondo got would be the last of his storied NBA career. By the time he ends it, he will be 36. There are guards like Chris Paul who have thrived even at the twilight of their career. Hence, there is a chance that Rondo could still play on.

But for now, his focus is on mentoring the young Hawks, particularly Trae Young. And the four-time NBA All-Star is up to the task, Yahoo Sports reported.

"It's kind of weird to look at the roster and I'm the oldest date on the sheet," he said with a smile. "But it's a natural fit as far as mentoring these young guys. So many great veterans helped me become the player I am today. It's only right to give it back full circle."

Once he does decide to call it a career, Rondo could end up being a general manager or coach. Seeing as how he has been barking out at players when he was still in Los Angeles and is now taking on a mentoring role, that shift is obvious. However, Rondo prefers to take it one step at a time.

"I would love to manage a team. I've been working to understand young talent, understand the (collective bargaining agreement). You definitely have to understand the CBA to a T. I've been doing my due diligence," Rondo said.

That will unsurprisingly be an option for the Louisville, Kentucky native. But for now, he wants to help the Hawks improve their season runs and Rondo sees a lot of potential. Will it all come together this 2020-21 season?