Indiana Pacers guard T.J. McConnell has solidified his future with the team by agreeing to a four-year, $45 million contract extension that will keep him with the franchise until the 2028-29 season. This new deal, negotiated by Mark Bartelstein and Andy Shiffman of Priority Sports, is a significant upgrade from his previous salary of $9.3 million for the 2024-25 season. With this extension, McConnell’s total contract value rises to $54 million over the next five years.
McConnell proved to be an indispensable player for the Pacers, especially during their impressive run to the Eastern Conference finals in the previous season. He showcased his skills by achieving career-high scoring averages both in the regular season (10.2 points) and the playoffs (11.8 points). His on-court performance and leadership qualities have undoubtedly contributed to Indiana’s success on the court.
Having completed his fifth season with the Pacers, McConnell has established himself as a reliable and versatile contributor to the team. Despite entering the league as an undrafted player, he has proven his worth over the years. In the postseason, he maintained impressive stats, averaging 11.8 points, 5.1 assists, and 3.1 rebounds in just 20 minutes of playing time per game. Notably, McConnell joined a select group of players, including Hall of Famer Michael Cooper, by averaging 10 points and five assists off the bench in a single postseason.
Securing Franchise’s Key Players
The Pacers have been proactive in securing their key players on long-term contracts, reinforcing their commitment to building a competitive and cohesive team. Along with McConnell, the franchise has extended deals with other essential players such as Pascal Siakam, Andrew Nembhard, and Obi Toppin. This strategic approach ensures continuity and stability within the team, fostering a conducive environment for sustained success in the future.
McConnell’s impact extends beyond the Pacers, as he ranked second in total assists off the bench in the NBA last season, behind only Malik Monk of the Sacramento Kings. His consistent performance, both in scoring and playmaking, highlights his value as a versatile player capable of making significant contributions to his team’s success. With his recent contract extension, McConnell’s future looks promising, and his presence will undoubtedly be felt on the court for the Pacers in the seasons to come.
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