Has Paul Pierce gotten over the stigma of that nullified game-tying shot against the Atlanta Hawks?

It will be recalled that Pierce has been known to make clutch shots but at least in this instance, it came a wee bit too late. Had the shot been counted, the Wizards would have had a chance to send the game into overtime. Instead, it was the end of the season for Washington.

Pierce was the most affected of it of course, going as far as hinting that it could be his final game. While many believe that Pierce has some more left in the tank, it looks like Pierce could very well be playing one more season at the least.

However it may not be in Washington. Critics believe that Pierce could likely opt out and possibly join the Los Angeles Clippers.

The move makes sense for Pierce who would have no problem transitioning over there since he is no stranger with head coach Glenn Doc Rivers.

Something that could likewise lean more on a Pierce exit is the fact that the Wizards are looking for someone younger and be around for a longer time. Pierce is in the twilight stages of his career and could retire any time soon. Pierce is already 37 years old.

Should that happen, there is no sweeter way to end it with a team near his home (Los Angeles).

Talk about Pierce headed to the Clippers came out as early as last year when he was still with the Brooklyn Nets. Unfortunately the Clippers chose to go with Spencer Hawes with the full mid-level exception and Pierce ended up in Washington.

If all these pieces are put together, it seems likely that Pierce may still play but only in LA rather than stay in Washington and make another go at it. Would he commit or stand pat on his statements after that dramatic game 6 where he said: "…. I don't even know if I'm going to play basketball anymore".