Indiana Pacers season review: T.J. McConnell emerged as a leader

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - DECEMBER 29: T.J. McConnell #9 of the Indiana Pacers dribbles the ball against Jeff Teague #55 of the Boston Celtics at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on December 29, 2020 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

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Indiana Pacers, T.J. McConnell (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images) /

How did T.J. McConnell fare in his second season with the Indiana Pacers?

The Pacers needed a spark off the bench as injuries forced several bench players into the lineup. One constant in that second unit was T.J. McConnell, the undisputed energy guy with that group that never had a dull moment on the floor. His baseline jumpers, stolen inbounds passes, and flashy dimes in transition all made for exciting content.

His defensive game may not be perfect but his hustle on that end of the floor helped him lead the NBA with 128 steals on the season. That steal total was boosted by an uncharacteristic 10-steal triple-double performance against the Cavaliers. Any time the Pacers needed energy, McConnell stepped in and delivered.

His season was obviously impressive but by his own standards, it was a career year. He set career-highs in points, assists, steals, rebounds, and field goal percentage. No matter how you slice it, 2020-21 was very kind to T.J. McConnell and he set himself up for a nice payday this summer.

Did he play himself out of Indiana because the Pacers will not be able to afford him? That’s a very realistic scenario to consider. If so, the Pacers would be smart to retain Aaron Holiday in case they do not find a new backup point guard. However, if they can bring back McConnell, Holiday’s time in Indiana may be coming to an end.

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