The only noteworthy swap of a zzzzzzzz-inducing NBA trade deadline was the Indiana Pacers sending former All-Star Danny Granger to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for Evan Turner and Lavoy Allen. Granger was a much-welcomed bright spot for a post-Malice at the Palace Pacers franchise that essentially had to be rebuilt from scratch — both mentally and from a personnel standpoint. However, injuries sidelined him for much of the Pacers’ ascension to title contenders, and his $14 million expiring contract was something everyone assumed the Pacers would shed this season.
It’s never easy to part ways with a franchise cornerstone (even if that cornerstone was relegated to bench help), and Granger was reportedly “pissed” when he found out. But, he still showed up for one final practice session to say goodbye to teammates, various front office personnel and Fat Popeye Jones before heading off to Tankadelphia.
The news isn’t all bad, though, as the Sixers may buy out Granger’s contract and waive him. And, if some reports are to be believed, Miami and San Antonio may be in the mix for his services. Not a bad landing spot.
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