Stephenson has become the Pacers' top offseason priority, and team president Larry Bird has expressed confidence they will be able to bring him back, the Indianapolis Star reports. "Lance wants to be here, there's no question about it," Bird stated.

Analysis:

Stephenson -- despite his antics -- was a major factor in the Pacers' success last season, as he led the team in both rebounds (7.2) and assists (4.6). It comes as no surprise that the team wishes to bring him back, as they attempt to make another run at the Heat in the Eastern Conference. Bird will undoubtedly extend Stephenson a lucrative contract offer, and cleared up more room to be able to do so by trading their 57th overall draft pick for cash considerations. It's currently unclear how close the two sides are to a deal, but the 23-year-old emerging star will surely receive some enticing offers once he becomes an unrestricted free agent. Whether or not Bird's words hold true as this situation unfolds will be one of the more intriguing storylines of the offseason.