Indiana Pacers big men Roy Hibbert and David West, both of who can become free agents in July, reportedly are sticking with the team for at least one more season. A healthy Paul George likely played a big factor in their reported decisions, setting the Pacers up for what could be one last title run with its veteran core intact.
Hibbert and West, both of whom were the subjects of trade rumors this season, apparently don't plan to use their player options to become free agents this summer. Pacers president Larry Bird revealed this week in an interview with the Indianapolis Star that both Hibbert and West were coming back to play out the final year of their contracts.
"They're going to opt in," Bird said with an air of certainty.
Hibbert and West stand to make $15.5 million and $12.6 million, respectively, by exercising their options. For West, 34, it's unlikely he'd get anything close to the $12.6 million he has waiting for him in Indiana. But for Hibbert, who's 28 years old and at the prime of his career, it would be a questionable decision. He's coming off a mediocre season, but there'd certainly be a market willing to pay big money for the 7-foot-2 rim protector. Although it's unlikely he'd command a max deal, he'd at least get a sizeable payday and the financial security of a multiyear deal. If Hibbert does play out the final year of his contract with Indy, he risks his free-agent value plummeting next summer if he suffers an injury - or has a subpar season - before then.
Assuming Bird's assertion is correct, George being healthy once again likely played a big part in Hibbert and West's decisions. Indiana's core players - George, West, Hibbert and George Hill - have been together for years, and after having their playoff hopes derailed this season by George's broken leg, they certainly want another shot at a title. With Hibbert and West on expiring contracts and neither player guaranteed to receive a new deal, Indiana's core likely sees the 2015-16 season as its last chance to win a championship together.
Hibbert and West have until June 22 to notify Indiana of their decisions.
