Speculation that Metta World Peace has played his last game with Lakers

Metta World Peace is likely out six weeks after having surgery Thursday to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee, and the injury is causing speculation that the forward’s Laker career may be over.

World Peace was hurt in the Lakers’ loss to Golden State on Monday. A six-week timetable for recovery means MWP would be out the rest of the regular season. He might be available if the Lakers reached the playoffs and won a first-round series.

The LA Daily News’ Mark Medina points out that World Peace has a $7.7 million option for next season. He could opt out in hopes of receiving a longer contract. If he opts in, the Lakers could still release him via the amnesty provision.

World Peace’s agent told Medina that they would be open to all options.

Metta has been with the Lakers the past four seasons ever since signing a five-year deal with the team in 2009. He took less money to be with the Lakers, and he was rewarded by winning the championship in his first year. He saw his playing time and individual stats decrease the next two seasons, but his minutes and stats were back up this year playing in Mike D’Antoni’s system.

World Peace will be 34 next season. He can probably find a job pretty easily, but we doubt it will be longterm or for more than the $7.7 million amount in his Lakers contract.

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