Indiana Pacers veteran point guard T.J. McConnell will be out of action for at least a month, the team announced today. He suffered the injury in action during Tuesday night’s preseason contest against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The whole team broke the news on their own Facebook page soon after the game. That begs the question as their regular season nears how deep they are at the point guard spot.
McConnell, 33, has been a key late-game contributor for the Pacers. Last year he put up 9.1 points, 4.4 assists in 79 games. His clutch performances were instrumental in leading the Pacers to their first NBA Finals. He put up 9.5 points and 4 assists per game in 23 playoff games. The impact of the injury is hard to overstate for a player who has been a steadying force and electric talent whenever he’s been on the court.
Rick Carlisle, head coach of the Pacers, provided an update on McConnell’s condition, stating, “Not as bad as it could have been but it’s going to take some time.” That’s a good sign and indicates, hopefully, this injury isn’t quite as serious as we initially feared. Yet, it requires an intense period of rehabilitation, nonetheless.
McConnell’s injury was a brutal kick in the nuts for the Pacers. They endured a second blow when rookie first-round guard Wright exited their preseason opener with a concussion and was unable to return. Wright’s situation adds even more mystery to the Pacers’ roster. McConnell’s absence is due to an injury suffered in a week six game.
With McConnell out, Andrew Nembhard would become the starting point guard. He’ll have to take charge of that team’s development as they move through the season without their experienced playmaker. The team will need to rely on Nembhard’s skills and adaptability as they adjust to the loss of both McConnell and potentially Wright.
Looking forward as the Pacers approach the season, it’s still a wait and see approach and they’ll have to keep a close eye on McConnell’s recovery. His return is keenly awaited by fans and teammates alike. Combined with his historic performances and central role in the team’s first berth makes him a fascinating character.
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