Report: Bird feels 'betrayed' by Artest's trade demands

[BAMAPHIN 22]

After standing by Ron Artest through the aftermath of the Brawl at Auburn Hills last season, Indiana Pacers president Larry Bird is finally speaking out about his oft-troubled forward's most recent request that the organization trade him.

On Monday, Bird spoke with the Indianapolis Star, the newspaper that first reported on Artest's desire for a trade.



"I don't know if this is the right wording, but I felt betrayed," Bird told the Star. "We're disappointed. Things happen, maybe it's a good thing. He's a very talented player. I always liked working with him and how he went about things on the basketball court. He's a top-12 player in the league, but we're in a situation where we have to move on.



"I think enough is enough. ... I think Ronnie will do fine but not here."



Bird recently returned from a 10-day scouting trip in Europe, which could be one of the reasons a trade for Artest has yet to be completed.


http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2271960

 

[Roman529]

The Denver Post is saying they think Artest is heading to the Nuggets.

 

[GreenMonster]

Wow, I didn't see this one coming from a player that spent his whole career the captian of 1 team. If I am the Bucks GM how bout an offer of Simmons and a 1st for Artest. The salary's even match up so it could happen straight up for those two guys. Artest is a top 15-20 player in the league just on the court.

 

[Prime]

I would feel that same way if I was Bird. Artest is a good player, but he is a big headcase. He is like the TO in basketball. I have been hearing that the Nuggets seem to be the most interested and if they get him, then watch out for that team. Having Carmelo, K-Mart and Artest could be a scary team.

 

[GreenMonster]

I would feel that same way if I was Bird. Artest is a good player, but he is a big headcase. He is like the TO in basketball. I have been hearing that the Nuggets seem to be the most interested and if they get him, then watch out for that team. Having Carmelo, K-Mart and Artest could be a scary team.

I have heard the same thing Ace. Nice young core of players with a good coach (Karl). Only problem I see there is that you have to get rid of Nene to get Artest, and all 3 of your superstars are a bit tempermental. Other than that this team should run and play decent D. I am surprised no team has put togather a deal to pull the trigger yet, I wonder if Bird and Walsh are holding out for better offers that I don't see coming.