Lance Stephenson has returned to the Indiana Pacers, the same team where he carved a name for himself. It marks a milestone in his career after failing to make it on his own since leaving back in 2014.
The prodigal son inked a three-year deal worth $12 million according to Chris Haynes of ESPN via Twitter. It becomes the best news for Stephenson yet who has tried his luck with five different teams. He last played for the New Orleans Pelicans and the Minnesota Timberwolves but hardly made an impact.
Lance Stephenson eligible for playoffs
The timing of the 26-year-old’s arrival is perfect.
He is eligible for the NBA playoffs, meaning he is another body that could aid Paul George.
The Pacers have been looking for additional help and even offered their 2017 NBA draft pick. Nothing came out of it as team president Larry Bird wanted to prove to George that the team could be a contender.
The coming of Stephenson could be a step towards that though the Pacers would need more help to unseat the Cleveland Cavaliers or get over the Boston Celtics.
Stephenson expected to toughen up Pacers
Aside from his great moments with the Pacers during the 2013-14 season, Stephenson was known as a role player who could fire up the ballclub. With Indiana, he held averages of 13.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 4.6 assists.
Since leaving, Stephenson has struggled. His numbers have been down though injuries were also a factor. He never lived up to the level the Charlotte Hornets were expecting. The same held true for the other four teams, something that placed his career in question.
A reunion with Paul George could help rekindle the flames of his past.
The team has gone through changes in personnel, including a new head coach in Nate McMillan. Stephenson blossomed under Frank Vogel so there could be adjustments needed.
To make room for Stephenson, the Pacers had to waive Rodney Stuckey. From here it remains to be seen if Stephenson can recall his old form to help the Pacers chances for the 2017 NBA playoffs.
