Indiana Pacers: 4 way-too-early NBA trade deadline predictions

The Indiana Pacers seriously gauge interest for point guard TJ McConnell

Don’t get me wrong: I love TJ McConnell. He’s been one of the most vocal leaders on and off the court for the Indiana Pacers in recent years. However, fresh from a relatively robust four-year, 35 million extension, his performance so far has not been similarly stout.

McConnell has his well-defined limitations, but he has been of the better players in the league who has adapted to his weaknesses, especially in the perimeter. Last season’s script, however, has been flipped a tad this year, with the pesky floor general yet to reclaim his form in the previous campaign which cemented his standing as one of the most effective bench players in the league.

With that in mind, I wouldn’t be surprised if the front office seriously tries to test the waters on what they can possibly get for him in a trade. Few teams in the NBA are tailored for his skillset, but his veteran leadership, defense, and playmaking are all valuable add-ons for competitive clubs, especially those that are in title contention.