3 players who have kept the Indiana Pacers afloat in Oladipo’s absence

T.J. McConnell

McConnell has yet to record a start this season, but the point guard has been a key contributor for the Pacers even if his number indicates otherwise.

Oladipo is a player that when on the floor takes full advantage of the opportunity and McConnell has done the same in his first year with the Pacers.

McConnell has been arguably the most consistent piece of the Pacers’ bench and he has only improved as the season has progressed.

Despite battling a groin injury, McConnell has shown fans why he is highly respected league-wide.

With all the injuries to the Pacers, McConnell has given the coaching staff peace of mind when turning to the second unit.

With Lamb and Brogdon out of the lineup on several different occasions, McConnell’s presence off the bench has allowed the team to remain steady despite a myriad of changes within the rotation.

McConnell is only averaging 7.1 PPG and 4.9 assists, but his efficiency and decision-making are reasons why the Pacers have remained afloat without Oladipo.

Even though the coaching staff has relied on Aaron Holiday as a starter at point guard when either Lamb or Brogdon have been out of the lineup, the consistency exemplified by McConnell is a reason why the Pacers have been able to turn the corner after a slow start to the season.

As McConnell’s comfort continues to grow with the coaching staff and teammates, expect the point guard to improve statistically and become a major contributor for the Pacers moving forward.

The Pacers are improving and once Oladipo returns, the sky is the limit for the team. With no clear-cut frontrunner in the Eastern Conference, the Pacers have the unique opportunity to change the perception the NBA has of its roster.

Malcolm Brogdon, Domantas Sabonis, and T.J. McConnell will continue to be key pieces even when Oladipo is back in the lineup, but their success now has allowed the Pacers to remain afloat and contend in the Eastern Conference.