Pacers Aim to Secure T.J. McConnell for Remainder of His Career.
Despite being swept by the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals, the Indiana Pacers had a successful season. Expectations were low at the season’s start, but the team quickly became known for their potent and exciting fast-break play. Their midseason acquisition of two-time All-Star forward Pascal Siakam significantly raised their ceiling.
A crucial contributor this season has been backup point guard T.J. McConnell. According to Pacers GM Chad Buchanan (via Evan Sidery), the team is looking to extend McConnell’s contract, aiming for him to spend the remainder of his career with Indiana.
McConnell, a nine-year veteran, averaged a career-high 10.2 points and 5.5 assists per game during the regular season. He elevated his performance in the playoffs, serving as a vital spark off the bench. With Tyrese Haliburton injured for the last two games of the Eastern Conference Finals, McConnell stepped up, scoring 23 points on 10-of-17 shooting, along with nine rebounds and six assists in Game 3, and contributing 15 points in Game 4.
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Looking ahead, Indiana boasts a competitive and intriguing roster. A full training camp this fall with Siakam should benefit the team greatly. While defense and rebounding have been identified as areas needing improvement, the Pacers led the NBA in scoring, field-goal percentage, and assists during the regular season, showcasing their offensive firepower.
With a few roster adjustments this summer, the Pacers could be poised to make a serious run at the NBA Finals next season.
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