Rick Carlisle concluded his two-day visit with Indiana Pacers officials Friday, closing in on the job he coveted three years ago but lost to Isiah Thomas.

Pacers CEO Donnie Walsh said Friday that talks with Carlisle's agent were progressing. One point being negotiated is a back-loaded contract -- less money in the first year and more in the other years -- because the team will honor the final year of Thomas' contract at $5 million.

Carlisle could be hired as early as Tuesday.

Meanwhile, the San Antonio Spurs must wait to announce Danny Ferry's hiring as director of basketball operations because the Pacers, who acquired the 36-year-old forward last month, are trying to trade his $4.5 million non-guaranteed contract to a team seeking salary-cap relief. After his contract is traded, he would retire as a player.