McConnell won't play every night, but he will be solid when he is needed
. Players were battling for starting spots, roles, playing time, and even slots in the rotation. Every practice and preseason game was important, as was the direction of the franchise., and it was the expected group. But the bench was surprising. Andrew Nembhard, Aaron Nesmith, Jalen Smith, and Buddy Hield comprised Indiana's second unit on opening night, and while they all earned opportunities, T.J. McConnell also played well during training camp and the preseason.
"Yeah, it was obviously a tough conversation as a competitor," McConnell said of his chat with Carlisle about minutes, which was done in person. It had to be, out of respect."I'm just here to do my job. Whatever he thinks is best for the team, he's got to do. I just have to stay ready." By the end of the frame, the blue and gold had trimmed the lead to six. When he exited the game after his first stint, Indiana was ahead by six. Even when his role is not promised or consistent, McConnell is still a tremendous vet. The Pacers know exactly what they are going to get from him whenever he is needed.for Indiana, and McConnell finished with eight points and eight assists in just under 19 minutes. He was a +21 and had zero turnovers. The veteran guard was excellent.
He did, and he earned one in Philadelphia, where he spent the first four seasons of his career."He was somebody who had to fight and claw for his opportunity... nothing's guaranteed for him, and he knows that," Turner said of McConnell's mentality, noting that the point guard will always play hard and try to earn his chances.
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