Larry Bird steps down as Pacers president

Now the Larry Bird can do what he does best and that is not run an National Basketball Association team for sure. Once those come forth, the situation can be properly assessed and the impact this move might have on the Lakers’ pursuit of Paul George will have proper context. That left both George and Gordon Hayward, the other player who could become eligible for a designated veteran extension, on the outside.

There are implications of Bird’s decision, including the fate of star player Paul George. The competition in the National Basketball Association is fierce, and the quality of coaching and managing is getting better and better all the time.

Bird leaves the Pacers ahead of a pivotal summer in which the franchise will have to decide what to do with George. IN made back-to-back first-round exits after failing to reach the playoffs in 2015. The Pacers were swept by the defending champion Cleveland Cavaliers. After a year away, he returned to the position. IN has a number of free agents to make decisions on and a first-round pick to select, but the looming free agency of Paul George has cast a shadow over the organization.

At this point, it seems inevitable that George will leave the Pacers. It could happen in the offseason or anytime before the February 2018 deadline.

Did he want to hold onto the four-time all-star on the off chance that George recommits to winning a title in Indiana? With the first-round elimination, it could have been the National Basketball Association legend’s sign of surrender.

His quick exit follows a pattern for Bird. If George gives that indication, the Pacers might have to look into trading him this summer. Will he be content serving as a consultant? That would give IN the ability to offer him vastly more money to remain with the Pacers.

Bird’s departure, first reported by The Vertical, precedes a crucial few months for the Pacers – a stretch that will likely determine the trajectory of the franchise.

On April 13, the Magic fired Hennigan after five seasons.