Lance Stephenson’s time with the Charlotte Hornets, albeit short so far, is not going well. The Hornets have reportedly put him on the trade block and his former team the Indiana Pacers are said to be one of the suitors. With their star player Paul George out for the season, they could desperately use the help so it seems like a perfect fit for him to return except… players on the Pacers reportedly don’t want him back!
Stephenson’s drop in production isn’t the only problem the Hornets have with him. Apparently his attitude is also a problem and he is not getting along with his teammates. It’s a problem he also had in Indiana and they don’t want to deal with it again.
via ESPN NBA Insider Marc Stein:
Weekend Trade Rumble: Heard various Pacers were asked if Indy should try to bring Lance Stephenson back. Response NOT one of encouragement. That’s Charlotte’s challenge in trying to move Stephenson. Pacers were worn out by season’s end & he had Hornets exasperated in record time.
This is obviously a problem but the Hornets should have better luck moving him closer to the trade deadline. There’ll certainly be a team willing to gamble on his talent, we’ve seen how well he played during the Pacers playoff run and he has a modest contract with two-years, $18 million remaining after this season. Stephenson however will have to work to get back to last season’s form to help entice suitors.
