While most of the focus has been on whether or not the Pacers will re-sign Lance Stephenson, another player could be on his way out. Pacers All-Star center Roy Hibbert struggled for the second half of the season and throughout the playoffs. He went scoreless four times and his lack of rebounding severely hurt his team. Rather than accept responsibility for his decline in production, Hibbert called out teammates and complained about his lack of touches. Well now a trade could be in the works.
That wouldn’t be easy given his contract, but if Indiana were to shop Hibbert, he reportedly would be open to the possibility.
From Marc Stein of ESPN.com (via ProBasketballTalk):
There is said to be some thought on both sides — management and Hibbert’s — that a fresh start would be beneficial for everyone after the big man’s second-half woes.
Hibbert’s camp hasn’t outright asked for a trade, sources say, but word is that it wouldn’t exactly oppose one if the Pacers decide to actively shop their center.
Hibbert still has two-years and $30 million left on his contract including a player option for the second year. Not only will some teams be reluctant to pay him, others won’t want to give up assets for a possible one-year rental. We’ll just have to keep an eye on the situation.
