With Haliburton out, we @8pts9secs asked the question, how much should TJ McConnell realistically be playing?
The discussion was between @IndyInThePaint (IP) and @_KyleBordner (KB)
IP: So how much should the Pacers be playing TJ McConnell right now? It appears that playing Nembhard in the clutch recently may have cost us some games down the stretch with some late-game mistakes, so I think asking the question makes a lot of sense while Haliburton is out.
KB: TJ is a really solid player for the Pacers. He should easily get 15-20 minutes a night.
IP: But the real question is whether or not it should be in a starting role with Haliburton out or the backup role so that Nembhard can grow? For example, would you rather have Andrew Nembhard close the games to get more experience? Or TJ to close the games cause he already has the experience?
KB: Backup. With Haliburton out, I’d close with whoever is having the better game. It would be flexible.
IP: Fair.
KB: Although, I don’t think Nembhard should ever end the game on the bench with Haliburton out, but sometimes it should be both and sometimes just Nembhard. He needs to be there because his closing defense is so valuable.
IP: Okay, I agree on the defense piece. However, the reason we ask is because Nembhard has made some terrible decisions down the stretch in close games. He isn’t the sole reason we have lost some of the games, but he isn’t a small part of many of them. But you’re right, Nembhard needs to guard the best guard and Nesmith the best forward.
KB: Exactly. And it’s probably not fair to only call him out for those few games, he’s also been in at the end of a lot of our clutch wins as well. A couple mistakes doesn’t mean he can’t still be a good player at the end of games.
IP: That’s a fair callout.
KB: Honestly, it’s hard with McConnell’s shooting, but I wonder how it depends for home or away. The crowd loves him as well.
He [Andrew Nembhard] needs to be there because his closing defense is so valuable.
IP: In a lot of ways he feels like the new Lance, bringing a lot of energy onto the court with him. So we are in agreement that Nembhard should always be on the floor to end games, while McConnell ends games when he is having a solid night?
KB: Agreed.
What do you think? Should TJ McConnell be playing heavily in the rotation with Tyrese out? Let us know in the comments below.