The Indiana Pacers have continued their commitment to running it back with the same core for the 2024-25 season. After re-signing Pascal Siakam and Obi Toppin, as well as extending Andrew Nembhard's contract this summer, the Pacers and backup point guard T.J. McConnell have officially agreed on a new contract.
According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, McConnell's contract extension is worth $45 million dollars over four years. This will run through the 2028-29 season.
Last season, the 32-year-old had the best campaign of his career. In 71 games for the Pacers, McConnell averaged 10.2 points (career high), 2.7 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 1 steal. Additionally, he shot 55.6% from the field and 40.9% from beyond the arc. McConnell also received votes for the Sixth Man of the Year award, ultimately finishing in seventh place.
Furthermore, McConnell's run carried over into the playoffs. En route to helping the Pacers reach their first Eastern Conference Finals since 2014, McConnell averaged 11.8 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 5.1 assists while shooting 48.6% from the field. The guard played all 17 games coming off the bench and played an essential role off the bench.
Most notably, McConnell had multiple 20-point performances in the postseason. In the first round, McConnell scored 20 points on 7-for-9 shooting against the Milwaukee Bucks in the Pacers' series-clinching Game 6. He also recorded nine assists, four steals, and two rebounds.
Furthermore, in Game 3 against the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals, he scored 23 points while shooting 10-for-17 from the field. McConnell also recorded nine rebounds, six assists, and a steal.
The Indiana Pacers signed T.J. McConnell to a four-year, $45 million contract extension
Since joining the team in 2019, McConnell has been a fantastic player for the Pacers. His contributions on both sides of the floor and his overall gritty playstyle have earned him the reputation as arguably the best backup points guard in the league.
Furthermore, he is the oldest player on the roster not named James Johnson, and his veteran presence is extremely important for a team as young as the Pacers.
A contract extension was a no-brainer for both sides, and Pacers fans should feel happy knowing they will continue to see McConnell on the team for the foreseeable future.