Indiana Pacers: Grading the team’s moves in Day 1 of NBA Free Agency

TJ McConnell remains with the Indiana Pacers

As if there was any doubt, playmaker TJ McConnell expectedly re-signed with the Indiana Pacers, agreeing in principle to a four-year deal worth 35.2 million dollars that will keep him in the Circle City until 2025.

The move came as no surprise to many, especially with the pesky playmaker expressing earnest intent to remain in Indy after tallying a career-year last season to the tune of 8.6 points, 6.6 assists and 1.9 steals per game off the bench, the latter of which ranked second in the association.

Re-upping McConnell was likely not met with much wavering. After all, the six-year point guard rose as one of the league’s best floor generals off the bench with his efficient secondary scoring, impressive court vision and knack for steals. He was one of the few players who flourished in former coach Nate Bjorkgren’s shifty defensive tactics, finishing the season with the most overall steals.

McConnell figures to be a critical piece for the Indiana Pacers in the foreseeable future. While he has his own limitations as a player, his role with the team is already cemented. Long and relatively pricey deals for role players will always merit a second look, but the front office played it safe with this one and ultimately nailed it.

Grade: A