Rush awaits decision on option

Indiana Pacers swingman Brandon Rush has more to worry about than proving to the team's front office he can stay out of trouble off the court.

He's also trying to show team president Larry Bird and general manager David Morway he deserves to have his $2.9 million team option picked up for next season.

Pacers officials have until Oct. 31 to make a decision. Rush will become an unrestricted free agent next summer if the Pacers don't exercise the option.

Rush acknowledged Wednesday that his five-game suspension for failing the league's mandatory drug test could affect his future with the Pacers.

"I do think it could play a part a little bit, but I'm trying not to worry about it," said Rush, who has been practicing with the second unit. "I should be fine as long as I come out here and show I've been putting in the work and I've changed my lifestyle. Everything should work out fine if I do those things."

The Pacers are expected to pick up center Roy Hibbert's $2.6 million option for next season.