Entering the 2013-14 season, it seemed like a no-brainer the Indiana Pacers would re-sign Lance Stephenson. The Pacers were the budding team of the Eastern Conference, poised to take over Miami's reign and Stephenson was a crucial piece to their overall puzzle. However, the Pacers' postseason has been met with a whirlwind of drama and despite forcing a Game 6, several members of the Indiana roster might not be back come next year.
According to ESPN.com's Brian Windhorst, the Pacers no longer believe it is a good idea to offer the guard a high-valued, long-term contract after his performance in the postseason as well as the second half of the regular season. The problem with the guard is not talent. He is just 23 and averaging 13.8 points and 7.2 rebounds during the regular season. He is extremely capable. The issue is the fact that he is now stamped as being a locker room headache and that could get any player kicked off a team no matter what his value is.
Stephenson has had several issues during the year. He has reportedly had locker room fights with teammates. He was called out as being selfish. He made headlines after trash talking LeBron James. He got into a cursing showdown with Even Turner. Yahoo Sports reports that his teammates are simply frustrated by his behavior and have concerns about retaining him for the future.
The Pacers could go multiple directions this offseason and that might not include keeping Stephenson for the long haul. Indiana is reportedly targeting re-signing Turner who will come significantly cheaper than the $8-10 million Stephenson is expected to command. They would ideally like to sign a marquee point guard and ESPN has linked them to everyone from Rajon Rondo to Ricky Rubio in trades.
There are plenty of teams that will give Stephenson a big contract despite the reports of questionable maturity and behavior. Any team in "win now" mode will take a look at the guard. Furthermore, any team that misses out on players like Carmelo Anthony will give Stephenson a look. Teams like the Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Lakers and even the New York Knicks could be solid options for him. The Cleveland Cavaliers will also look his way if Stephenson lands on the market. After making just $1 million this season, he will get a pay raise. It just remains to be seen if it is with the Pacers or not.
