Pau Gasol is a lifelong competitor, which doesn't simplify the recent lack of opportunity he's been granted with the San Antonio Spurs.

The six-time All-Star and two-time NBA champion is only playing 12.5 minutes per game this season, while his numbers have drastically regressed – currently posting 4.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 0.2 assists per contest in the midst of his 18th campaign.

The Spurs, who are trying to stay afloat in the Western Conference with a respectable record of 32-26, reportedly attempted to deal the 38-year-old Gasol before the trade deadline this week. Though the organization ‘worked hard' to finagle a deal, nothing materialized.

After signing a three-year, $48 million contract with San Antonio in 2017, is it possible that we are witnessing a possible retirement?

“In two summers, I might think about it a little more,” Gasol told Michael Bohlin of 247 Sports back in November. “It might be an option then, maybe. And maybe not because I love what I do. I work my ass off to do what I do at this stage, to keep up with the pace of the game and the progress and the development of the game today. I take pride in that. That’s what makes me who I am.”

The Spurs were blown out on Saturday by the Utah Jazz 125-105, with head coach Gregg Popovich administrating only 7 minutes for Gasol.

The organization hasn't made a move since October, when it announced the release of future Hall of Fame guard Manu Ginobili – thus signaling Gasol could have a more expanded reserve role come playoff time.