The Indiana Pacers have officially announced the contract extension for point guard T.J. McConnell, according to a team press release.
“T.J. McConnell embodies the intensity, competitive spirit, and passion for the game that every NBA team desires,” said Pacers president of basketball operations Kevin Pritchard. “He has become a vital veteran presence for our team, both on and off the court, and his importance to our franchise can’t be overstated. T.J. was crucial to our success last season, and we’re thrilled that he’ll continue to be a part of what we’re building here.”
The extension is reportedly a four-year deal worth $45 million.
McConnell, 32, stands 6-foot-1 and averaged 10.2 points, 5.5 assists, and 2.7 rebounds over 71 games last season, serving as the Pacers’ primary backup point guard as they advanced to the Eastern Conference finals.
Entering his sixth season with Indiana after spending his first four with the Philadelphia 76ers, McConnell has become a fan favorite and key contributor.
“We’d love to keep T.J. as a Pacer for life,” said Pacers general manager Chad Buchanan in a radio interview this offseason. “Everyone has seen his value over the past few years, and it really shone during the playoffs this year. We’d hate to lose him, but we understand that the business side eventually comes into play for everyone.”
The Pacers currently have 19 players under contract, including 12 with guaranteed deals.
“McConnell’s value goes beyond his stats. He can effectively run an up-tempo offense, which is crucial for Indiana,” wrote Tony East of SI.com. “The Pacers played at a fast pace, near the top of the league, and Tyrese Haliburton’s skills thrive in that system. When Haliburton is off the court, McConnell can maintain the same pace, ensuring the team doesn’t miss a beat during his minutes.”
