The Pacers haven’t had a true point guard since #13, Mark Jackson in 2000. Travis Best was never any good, nor was Anthony Johnson, Jammal Tinsley, or T.J. Ford. 10 years later, the Pacers are without their coach on the floor. And now after an injury, they are also without a backup.
Indiana Pacers backup point guard A.J. Price had a solid rookie season. He was impressive, effective, and did more than most had expected. However the results are delayed now as he had successful surgery today on his fractured left kneecap at Indiana Orthopedic Hospital, the team said.
The injury occurred as Price was cutting towards the basket in a charity basketball game at a high school in New York on Saturday. He is expected to be out four to six months. Price averaged 7.3 points and 1.9 assists in 56 games last season.
A.J. Price was in a no-win situation with this basketball game. Because it was in his hometown, if he had declined to play, those in his community may have perceived that he was above the game. From the Pacers standpoint, it is always a risk for a player to be involved in anything athletic outside of team activities. He could have just as easily suffered the injury on the playgrounds of NY, at UConn, or here at Conseco Fieldhouse.
Price is well-versed with injuries and rehab. He tore the ACL in his left knee, which caused him to miss six months, while playing at the University of Connecticut in the 2008 NCAA Tournament. So now the left knee has a repaired ACL and kneecap.
But now Price’s injury could affect his future with the Pacers because he has a non-guaranteed contract next season. The Pacers are trying hard to move T.J. Ford. He has not played aggressive, effective and smart basketball while in a Pacers uniform. He picked up the option on his contract to return to Indiana due an annual salary of $8.5 million. A hefty price for an unefficient PG.
Devin Harris‘ name has been thrown around multiple times in a potential trade with NJ. The Pacers would probably have to give up their #10 pick along with Brandon Rush. Another possible player for Indiana to acquire is Tony Parker. He has aged a little bit and has essentially been replaced by George Hill in San Antonio. Hill has truly emerged and become a proven guard. The Spurs may be very willing to give up Parker for something valuable in exchange.
What the Pacers are not going to do this offseason is trade for any big contracts. They are in the best position in the league for next offseason. They will have the most money available so the last thing they should do is screw that up. Philadelphia has been outspoken about willing to trade this year’s #2 pick if the team will take on Elton Brand’s 3 year/$51 million dollar contract. While it sounds intriguing…the Pacers must avoid.
This next year will be more of the same. Under .500. Half-full Conseco Fieldhouse. No playoffs. But one thing is for certain. This team desperately needs a starting point guard…and now after Price’s injury, a backup as well.