Here’s an article with some updates on how Bird feels about J.O.:
IndyStar: Bird did not say O’Neal would definitely return to the team next season. But he reiterated what he said last month — Bird hopes the six-time All-Star will be wearing a Pacers uniform next season.
“I’ve said it all along — I hope so. I look forward to having him back in the mix. When he gets double-teamed, we’re going to have players out there that can hit the shot now,” Bird said.
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My guess is that they still want to trade O’neal because he is going to opt out after next season. But Bird wants to get a good deal because he does not want to be the guy that completely dismantled a team that was in the playoffs repeatedly just a couple of years ago. Actually that is why he wants Lamar Odom in a deal for O’neal, even if it makes more sense to get the cap space.
(Bynum/Brown/Radmonivic/Farmer) for (JO/Granger)
That is a yes for me!!!!!!!!
Fred the Pacers are not going to trade Granger. Why would they trade their best (only) young talented player?
I second what LF81 says. No way Granger gets traded. But I’m still hugely in favor of a JO trade to LA. It makes a lot of sense for both teams. Interesting thought LF about why he wants LO so badly as well. I really don’t think the Lakers will deal both Bynum and LO however. If it didn’t happen before I think chances are even less likely now. Maybe Indy has to settle for one or the other plus a point guard (either Crit or Farmar). But like you said before, I don’t see anything happening for JO until there is some kind of resolution about KG. Early August should be intriguing. See if we actually were working on something or if it’s all just hype.
LF81 -
And the resigning of Mihm is what’s making me think strongly that it’s going to be Bynum, Brown and point guard rather than LO. BTW I still like your idea of getting Foster back.