Is Foster trade bait again?

One of the reasons Jeff Foster was eager to return to the court this season was to prove that he could still contribute at a high level after being sidelined most of last season with back problems.

Foster, however, also knew if he played well that his experience and expiring contract would make him an enticing trade option.

"I had this discussion of retirement and if I came back and played well, that being traded was probable come January or February," he said.

Foster's contract is one of four expiring deals -- Solomon Jones, T.J. Ford and Mike Dunleavy have the others -- the Pacers could use as bargaining chips if they want to acquire a player they feel fits into their long-range plans before the Feb. 24 trade deadline.

"That's part of the business," he said. "I'd be sad if it happened, but you have to move on and continue to be professional and do your job. One of us could be moved to help the team become better in the future."
"I think I've shown over the last couple of days I can play at a high level," Foster said. "I hope I get to continue that opportunity the rest of the year as a Pacer."