Crossroads: Previewing the Indiana Pacers' 2009 Offseason

After three sub-.500 seasons, the Indiana Pacers find themselves at what could be a crossroads.  The franchise is building a young, hungry roster, yet speculation is beginning to swirl about its very future in Indianapolis. The 2009 offseason threatens to be one that could lead to Indiana's NBA faithful again being allowed to enjoy playoff basketball.  It could also be one that could one day lead to them no longer being able to enjoy any professional basketball. Five varying issues loom before this franchise in the summer of 2009.   1. Brother, Can You Spare $15 Million? It's difficult for a fan to get terribly excited about the No. 13 draft pick and a free-agent crop that's largely too rich for the Pacers' blood when owner Herb Simon is struggling with the Indianapolis Capital Improvement Board over who will pick up the tab on Conseco Fieldhouse. While Simon is one of the most successful mall developers in America, the team's potential $30 million loss can make even ... (link)