China-bound Dorell Wright says NBA veterans getting squeezed out by prospects

Don't get Dorell Wright wrong. He's rather excited about his one-year deal with the Chongqing Dragons of the Chinese Basketball Association.

The 11-year veteran was upbeat about the latest chapter in his career, calling it a "great opportunity" in an interview with Jabari Young of CSN Northwest.

"I’m really looking forward to it,” Wright said. "I’m going to be able to go play and really contribute and try to help a team win. If I have to start my career and be over there like a (Stephon Marbury), who paved the way for us American players and NBA players, I’m all for that."

But the move wasn't entirely by choice. Wright, 29, said his age worked against him in his pursuit of another NBA contract.

As Wright explained, he wasn't even surprised by the lack of interest.

"It’s a new era," he said. "A lot of us veterans are getting pushed out for more of the young school. It’s kind of crazy because I’m older in (NBA years) than I am in age. Most (teams) they want to take a risk or take a shot at the younger players and I understand that."

Wright has always been a strong spot-up threat capable of playing both forward positions. He's no longer starter quality, but he could be a useful utility player off the bench.

Even though a prospect may be less equipped than a veteran like Wright to contribute immediately, the lure of finding the next Hassan Whiteside or Draymond Green has proved enticing.

Wright may still return to the NBA, as the CBA regular season runs until February. If his Dragons don't make the playoffs, Wright could return mid-season to help a playoff team in need of a veteran.