I bleed blue and yellow, like most in central Indiana.

But the past few years have been difficult to deal with.

The brawl in Detroit a few years ago started the downfall of a once proud franchise.

I have said from the get-go that trading Ron Artest was something that was necessary, albeit disappointing. He was a tough player.

Trading for Al Harrington was wonderful. I was thrilled to see him back in Pacer blue.

But losing him? That was also disappointing. After two years of getting to do what ever he wanted to do on the offensive end with the lowly Hawks, he just couldn't fit in with Rick Carlisle's offensive scheme.

Trading Stephen Jackson? That was a blessing.

But when Reggie Miller retired, something glared within Conseco Fieldhouse.

There was a lack of leadership.

Jermaine O'Neal is a terrific player. He's been the cornerstone of the Pacers' offense for the past five years.

But without Miller, there is no guidance.

I was so disappointed when Reggie decided to hang it up, knowing that he probably still had three years left in him.

But he felt it was time and I was OK with that.

But now the Celtics are trying to lure him out of retirement? Oh dear.

Say it ain't so Reg!

I'd hate to see you in any other uniform other than Pacer blue. That would be horrible. You were the rock of this franchise. The reason people came to see Indiana play.

Honestly, if there is any way the Pacers could deal Larry Bird to the Celtics for some players, I'd be welcome to that idea.

Since Bird came back, things have gone down hill. The franchise has been in a full-tile downward spiral. Don't people see the connection?

I'd love to trade Bird out of Indiana back to Boston for some players. That would be a welcome experience.

I don't care if he's a Hoosier. Since he came back to work with the squad, the team has been slipping.

His trades and acquisitions in the recent years have been pathetic.

Lose Larry. Reclaim Reggie.

Wishful thinking, I know. But it would be worth it.