Report: Pacers players don't want Lance Stephenson back
With Lance Stephenson already reportedly clashing with teammates in Charlotte and the 8-19 Hornets said to be looking to move the enigmatic guard, his former team in Indiana was considered a possible destination.
After all, the Pacers tolerated Stephenson for years and watched him play a key role on a team that went to back-to-back Eastern Conference finals.
Think again, according to ESPN's Marc Stein.
Weekend Trade Rumble: Heard various Pacers were asked if Indy should try to bring Lance Stephenson back. Response NOT one of encouragement
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) December 22, 2014
Considering his talent, his youth, and the fact that only the first two years of his three-year, $27-million contract are guaranteed, Stephenson seems like the type of player most teams would take a gamble on. But if the Hornets are already sick of him and the Pacers don't want him back, good luck convincing other teams to give up anything of value for the 24-year-old.
Stephenson is averaging 10.2 points, 6.8 rebounds and 4.8 assists in Charlotte, shooting just 38 percent from the field and 15 percent from behind the arc.
The Hornets perform 8.1 points per 100 possessions worse with Stephenson on the court than they do with him on the bench, according to NBA.com.