There is a “prevailing notion” around the NBA that the Indiana Pacers would attempt to sign T.J. McConnell to a contract extension, according to a report by Michael Scotto in HoopsHype.
After McConnell had a fantastic season with the Pacers, it makes sense that the franchise would want to extend his contract. Despite coming into the season outside of the rotation, he quickly established himself as a key contributor, averaging 10.2 points and 5.5 assists per game this year.
This summer, contingent on a few free agency conditions, he could be able to receive a contract extension worth up to around $80 million for another four years.
As long as the new agreement falls within certain restrictions, it may be shorter in duration or need less money overall. McConnell signed a $33.6 million, four-year contract last time around. His season truly turned around around the time he turned thirty-two in March.
Following Bennedict Mathurin’s shoulder injury, McConnell emerged as one of the NBA’s top scorers off the bench, averaging 13.9 points per game over the Pacers’ final 19 games.
McConnell is a highly valuable member of the squad, according to general manager Chad Buchanan, who expressed his regret at losing the seasoned guard. In an earlier offseason radio interview, Buchanan stated, “We’d love to keep T.J. as a Pacer for life.”
McConnell placed sixth in the Sixth Man of the Year competition. Though his ability to pass and score well was vital, McConnell’s ability to carry out Indiana’s fast-paced style even in the absence of star guard Tyrese Haliburton may prove to be more beneficial. Not many reserve point guards could perform that since it’s difficult.
Buchanan remarked, “T.J. had a phenomenal year.” “I’m not sure what else can be said about T.J. and the impact he has had on our squad. adored by his staff, fans, coaches, and players. He embodies all that an Indiana Pacer should be.”
McConnell believed that the team’s success was more significant than his own, even after his breakthrough year. The Pacers regard him so highly in part because of that mentality. Just as crucial as his play on the floor is his demeanor in the locker room.
“To play alongside the group in games like [the Eastern Conference Finals], it was a great feeling,” McConnell said.
McConnell’s $9.3 million cap hit is only guaranteed for $5 million this season, but Indiana will certainly not waive him. If the team wants McConnell beyond the coming season and doesn’t want to risk free agency next summer, then a contract extension could make sense. The veteran guard becomes eligible for an extension on July 6.
