The sign-and-trade deal between the Boston Celtics and New Orleans Hornets for two-time All Star forward David West seems to be hitting the skids, as the Indian Pacers have entered as the favorite to land the star. According to ESPN.com's Marc Stein, the Pacers are close to signing West to a two-year, $20-million deal after talks between the Hornets and Celtics flamed out because New Orleans did not want Boston forward Jermaine O'Neal.
"It was not immediately known if the Celtics would try to salvage their West deal with the New Orleans Hornets, said Stein. "The Pacers, sources say, also have Carl Landry and Andrei Kirilenko alongside West at the top of their frontcourt wish list."
On Saturday night, Nola.com reported that the sign-and-trade between Boston and New Orleans was almost a done deal, however, that doesn't seem to be the case.
West, 31, averaged 18.9 points per game in 2010-11, but will be entering this season coming off of reconstructive surgery, which was done late last season after an ACL tear.
For more Boston Celtics coverage, visit our team page and blog, CelticsBlog.