The Indiana Pacers have backup guard and playoff standout T.J. McConnell with a long-term contract extension ahead of the 2024-25 NBA season.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, McConnell is set to sign a four-year, $45 million deal with the Pacers. This new contract, when combined with the $9 million remaining on his current deal, brings McConnell’s earnings to $54 million over the next five seasons.
Indiana has focused on retaining its key players after a deep playoff run. Pascal Siakam inked a four-year, $189 million contract at the beginning of free agency in July, while Andrew Nembhard secured a three-year, $59 million extension. Tyrese Haliburton had already signed a five-year, $260 million max extension during the previous offseason.
T.J. McConnell has become vital to Pacers’ bench
McConnell, 32, has filled a crucial role in the Pacers’ success after entering the 2023-24 season in trade rumors. The former Arizona standout excelled in his role off the bench, contributing 11.8 points and 5.1 assists in just 20.5 minutes per game.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: TJ McConnell, Indiana Pacers Updates
Alongside Obi Toppin, McConnell’s energy and playmaking were vital in pushing the Pacers into the Eastern Conference Finals. McConnell provided a necessary off-the-dribble threat to drive the lane for finishes or to create shots for his teammates, or take one of his short-range pull-ups or floaters that he likes to get to.
In addition to his playoff heroics, McConnell had the best regular season of his nine-year career. He averaged 10.2 points on 55.6 percent shooting, along with 5.5 assists and 2.7 rebounds. His efforts earned him a seventh-place finish in the Sixth Man of the Year voting.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: TJ McConnell, Indiana Pacers Updates
Given these achievements, McConnell’s extension is far from surprising. Back in June, HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto reported that there was a strong belief around the league that the Pacers would work to secure McConnell with a new deal.
McConnell joined the Pacers in 2019 on a two-year, $7 million contract after playing four seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers. He later signed a four-year, $33.6 million deal to remain with the Pacers through 2025.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: TJ McConnell, Indiana Pacers Updates
With $9.3 million due for the 2024-25 season, McConnell has positioned himself to be a long-term solution for the Pacers. Alongside Tyrese Haliburton and Andrew Nembhard in the backcourt rotation, Indiana is setup well in this area for many years to come.
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