The Pacers plan to keep T.J. McConnell on the roster for another season at $3.5MM rather than buying out his contract for $1MM, a source tells J. Michael of The Indianapolis Star. The team hasn’t made an announcement, but Michael reports that McConnell is “a lock to return.”
The 28-year-old point guard signed with Indiana last summer after spending the first four years of his career in Philadelphia. His contract includes a trigger date for year two that the Pacers have to decide on before the draft, which has since been moved to November 18.
McConnell isn’t a three-point threat, shooting just 29.4% from beyond the arc, but Indiana’s management values his professionalism, hustle and attitude, Michael adds. He appeared in 71 games last season, averaging 6.5 points and 5.0 assists in about 19 minutes per night.
Former coach Nate McMillan regularly used McConnell ahead of Aaron Holiday in the rotation. Their roles going forward will be determined by new coach Nate Bjorkgren.
Should try flip McConnell for a second round pick or two from the Sixers.
Sixers currently have 1 first and 4 seconds and the Pacers currently have no firsts and 1 second.
McConnell was a former 76er and know the roster and would be a happy contributor. Pacers in return don’t have to buy him out, can let Aaron Holiday take over his minutes and get a more picks.
It’s kind a win-win
I loved T J during his time in Philly…but he ain’t coming back.
TJ and Jimmy duo needs to happen again