"The Indiana Pacers might look to trade point guard T.J. Ford before the end of the season.

The starter earlier in the season, Ford has been benched and has not played since Dec. 30.

Asked before the Pacers' game against the Pistons on Friday night if a trade this season is a possibility, Pacers coach Jim O'Brien said, "I don't think there's any doubt.

"He's a quality point guard. He could really help another franchise. It's not my decision to say what Larry decides, but certainly, I think we'd be open-minded."

The final decision on a trade would be made by Pacers president Larry Bird.

The NBA trading deadline is Feb. 18. Ford makes $8.5 million this year and has a player option for $8.5 million next season.

Since Jan. 1, O'Brien has elected to go with Earl Watson as the starter and rookie A.J. Price as the backup.

"He's the third point guard in our rotation," O'Brien said of Ford. "We like what Earl is giving us at the starting position, and we're trying to grow a rookie."