Pacers point guard T.J. Ford is fine with the possibility of being traded prior to next month's deadline.

Ford hasn't played since Dec. 30 as Indiana coach Jim O'Brien has used Earl Watson as his starter and rookie A.J. Prince as his backup.

"The ball's in their court," Ford said when asked about a possible deal. "Definitely, I want to play. If I'm not going to play here, if I can go somewhere else and play, then of course."

Pacers president Larry Bird said Saturday night that he's "not looking to trade T.J."

Regardless, Ford understands that the NBA is a business.

"It's a business," Ford said. "It is what it is. I'm doing all the things I'm supposed to do since I'm still on the roster. I'm healthy. I still get my workouts in, my conditioning in. I stay ready.

"If they trade me, they'll trade me on their own will and power. I haven't said anything. I'm just doing what I'm supposed to be doing."

Ford makes $8.5 million this season and has a player option for $8.5 million next year.

"I want to compete. I want to play. I don't want to sit out," he said. "I know I have a lot of game left. There's no doubt in my mind about that. It's just circumstances."