About a month ago, forward Jermaine O'Neal was the subject of extensive trade rumors Since then, the rumors have died down.

Larry Bird did not say O'Neal would definitely return to the team next season. But he reiterated what he said last month -- Bird hopes the six-time All-Star will be wearing a Pacers uniform next season.

"I've said it all along -- I hope so. I look forward to having him back in the mix. When he gets double-teamed, we're going to have players out there that can hit the shot now," Bird said.