The Pacers are definitely trying to concoct a trade in order to create cap room for a point guard. Kenny Anderson is the No. 1 option, reveal sources. Yet the more Rick Carlisle eyeballs the multiplicity and masculinity of Ron Artest and Al Harrington, the safer they become. In other words, that exposes Jonathan Bender and Austin Croshere as trade bait.

"They want Kenny and he wants them," alerts a hall monitor. "Look for a decision next week. "If the Pacers can't free up the money and years Kenny wants, he'll either settle for the veteran minimum or sign with the Hawks where he lives."

Indiana's plan B is Mark Jackson; Omar Cook is being brought into camp minus any guarantees. Despite what you may have read elsewhere, Jackson is not considering signing with the Blazers without being G-ed up and never was. Should the Pacers decide against bringing him back for a third hitch, the Spurs and Heat (Rafer Alston is Miami's only legit playmaker) are distinct possibilities . . .