Yes, SIDESTEP is a Scrabble word!

Letter values in Scrabble US: S 1, I 1, D 2, E 1, S 1, T 1, E 1, P 3.

Is it a valid word?

SIDESTEP is a valid word in the official Scrabble dictionary (US), the UK Scrabble Dictionary and Words with Friends (ENABLE).

avoid or try to avoid fulfilling, answering, or performing (duties, questions, or issues)

Also: put off.