Read this in Real GM.... "Looking ahead to summer deals There still are games to be played and a title to be decided, but Sports Illustrated already is looking ahead at potential moves this summer. One blockbuster: Indiana Pacers forward Jermaine O'Neal going to Chicago for guard Kirk Hinrich and the New York Knicks' unprotected lottery pick, which was received in the Eddy Curry trade. The magazine had a picture of O'Neal in a Bulls' home uniform wearing his No. 7. It wouldn't be surprising if O'Neal's name is mentioned in trade rumors this summer if the Pacers don't have a successful playoff run. Pacers rookie forward Danny Granger also was mentioned, but in a positive way. Granger is one of five players listed for a breakthrough in the second half of the season." Any thoughts?
Jermaine IS the Pacers, he needs to STAY IN INDIANA. After all he's been through, he needs so see this through. I really feel for the kid. I've been a fan of Jermaine since he broke out in the first round of the 02 playoffs that awesome series. He has had a LOT of bad luck in some ways - true he got the huge contract, but then injuries, the brawl thing happened, some success with the team, but always hiccups along the way, he could never catch a break. Indiana can still make some noise this postseason and will fly under the radar. If he gets traded to Chicago he will truly officially be cursed. The only other players i can think of who are franchise players who have been totally unselfish player and committed to the organization in thanks for the huge contract are Tim and KG. I don't want to see Jermaine being shipped around the NBA like nick van exel or somebody. At the same time, if the Pacers do this trade, they will clear cap space, get Hinrich, a lottery pick - you can see how they would be tempted to just start building the team again, but players like JO are rare and they need to recognize that. Anyone else on the team they should consider trading if it would help them. And keep Rick Carlisle. Rick Carlisle + Jermaine + the right pieces = a championship.
