"Pacers president Larry Bird said today that the franchise will not trade center Roy Hibbert to Minnesota, as was reportedly discussed.

According to a Yahoo! Sports report, the Pacers had conversations about trading Hibbert and their 15th pick in Thursday's draft to Minnesota for the Timberwolves' No. 2 pick.

"We're not doing that … Roy is one of our core guys," Bird said today at Conseco Fieldhouse.

Bird said a myriad of options get discussed leading up to the draft, pointing out teams' phones ring until "10 seconds" before picks are made.

Pressed on who he would consider trading, Bird said, "There are no untouchables, but I do like our core group."

This year's draft is not considered strong with NBA-ready talent. Last year, only three players taken in the first round averaged in double figures as rookies, so it's doubtful an instant-impact player will be available at 15."