IC Cold Links: Pacers Looking At Another Big Man

After already adding 6-foot-10 forward Solomon Jones this weekend, as reported by the Indianapolis Star, the Indiana Pacers are being linked with yet another big guy. The Boston Globe's Frank Dell'Apa took an in-depth examination of why the Pacers-Celtics possible sign-and-trade involving Marquis Daniels has stalled and he briefly notes that the Pacers have expressed interest in Dallas center Ryan Hollins.

It is unclear if that interest has waned since the signing of Jones over the weekend. Hollins, who is 7-feet tall, averaged 3.2 points per game and 2.2 rebounds for Charlotte and Dallas last season. My assumption is that Dell'Apa got this information before the Jones signing, as the pursuit of Hollins seems unlikely with the Pacers now strapped for open roster spots and the fact that he and Jones play the same position. They also have similar styles of play. Both have above-average wingspans that help their presence in the post as great shot blockers.

Of course, if the Earl Watson deal doesn't materialize as planned, then an extra spot will be open. Should be an interesting week to see when these guys get press conferences and sign on the dotted line.

• SBNation's Celtics Blog examines the story going on with the Daniels sign-and-trade and says that the Celtics preference is to include Tony Allen in the deal.
• Pacers rookie Tyler Hansbrough is being honored in his hometown on August 13.
• Former Pacer Rasho Nesterovic apparently was just on loan last season as he heads back to his old team, the Toronto Raptors, as reported by ESPN.com.
• Sports Illustrated has a great story on the saga surrounding former Pacer Ron Artest signing with the Lakers a few weeks ago. Synopsis? Ron Ron is still a bag full of crazy.
• Danny Granger missed the Team USA mini-camp due to injury, but his teammates put on a show this week for NBA Insiders. John Schuhmann looks at the 10 players who helped their stock during the camp.