Report: Pacers, Lance Stephenson reach impasse on new deal
The Indiana Pacers selected Lance Stephenson in the 2010 NBA Draft, but it appears things could be reaching the “end of the road,” if you will. That’s because ESPN.com’s Chris Broussard is reporting that the two sides are at an impasse over a new contract for the guard.
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According to reports, the Pacers offered Stephenson a five-year deal worth $44 million but it wasn’t the offer he was looking for.
“Lance and his representatives aren’t sure they’re going to be able to reach an agreement with the Pacers,” a source said, via Broussard’s report. “It’s clear they want him back and he wanted to go back, but they may not be able to come to terms.”
The Pacers were at a disadvantage thanks to Stephenson having a breakout season in his final year of his contract. Stephenson averaged 13.8 points, 7.2 rebounds and 4.6 assists last season—all of which were career highs.
Where Stephenson lands is an unknown, but Broussard is reporting that teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Chicago Bulls and Charlotte Hornets have all expressed interest in his services.
Indiana clearly wanted Stephenson back in the fold, even producing a full-length movie about Stephenson’s life and showing it to him at a private screening with family and friends in attendance according to the Indianapolis Star.