Indiana Pacers coach Frank Vogel admits without departed forward Danny Granger, he probably wouldn't be head coach of his Eastern Conference leading team.
"I want to thank him publicly for being my biggest supporter when I was the interim coach here and trying to turn that team around back then and obviously trying to earn a job," Vogel told the Indystar.com. "To have your best player be your strongest supporter is something I'll always be grateful for with Danny."
In a deal that brought the team 2008 No. 2 overall draft selection Evan Turner, the Pacers dealt the nine-year veteran and former All-Star forward to the Philadelphia 76ers just before last Thursday's trade deadline. Though Granger, hampered by lingering knee issues, isn't nearly the player he once was, all his teammates were sad to see him go.
"I love you, bro," Indystar reports star forward Paul George told Granger as he made his way toward the exits.
"This is very emotional for me," George later told the website.. "Danny's been by my side even before I got drafted here. I understand it's business. But it sucks."
The 30-year-old Granger has strongly hinted he plans to seek a buyout from the 76ers in hopes he might be able to catch on with another playoff contending team, such as the Heat, spurs or Thunder.
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