Report: Pacers making 2017 1st-rounder available at deadline
The Indiana Pacers are doing everything in their power to ensure Paul George remains in The Hoosier State.
In an effort to give the All-Star forward more support, Indiana is making its 2017 first-round selection available at this year's deadline, league sources told ESPN's Chris Haynes.
While there is reportedly some reluctance within the organization to give up the selection, the Pacers are hoping that moving such an asset would help land them either an established wing or frontcourt player.
Related: George noncommittal on Pacers extension: 'I want to compete for something'
George - who has the ability to opt out of his current deal at the end of next season - was noncommittal when asked about signing an extension with the Pacers this summer.
"As I told Larry (Bird), I always want to play on a winning team," George told ESPN Radio on Friday. "I always want to be part of a team that has a chance to win it (all). That's important."
The 26-year-old is averaging 22.3 points, 6.2 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.6 steals for the Pacers this season.
Indiana has been in a rough patch of late, dropping its last six contests heading into the All-Star break.