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The league s top substitute point guard! Is the Pacers backcourt player really outstanding in the field?

3:01pm, 16 May 2025【Basketball】

In a previous NBA Eastern Conference semi-finals G4, the Indiana Pacers, who played at home, rebounded strongly and defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 129-109. After this game, the Pacers widened the total score of the series to 3-1, winning the match point of this round of series, while the Cavaliers, who ranked first in the Eastern Conference in the regular season and were far ahead in their record, were in big trouble.

In this game, the Pacers' substitute point guard TJ McConnell still maintained a high level. McConnell played 18 minutes and 08 seconds in the whole game, made 5 of 9 shots, 1 of 2 from outside the three-point line, and 2 of 2 free throws. He efficiently scored 13 points, 2 rebounds, 8 assists and 1 steal, with 1 turnover and 3 fouls, and the plus and negative value also reached +9. McConnell also showed comprehensive scoring ability on the offensive end, and he also won a lot of points with high efficiency. Not only that, McConnell also played the role of the core of the second team very well, and his performance in passing and organizing offense is also remarkable. McConnell also has a high level of concentration on the defensive end, and his personal defensive ability is also worthy of recognition. McConnell has played his own characteristics on both offense and defense, and he has also made considerable contributions to the team's big victory.

In the NBA regular season this season, McConnell made a total of 79 appearances in 82 games, averaging 17.9 minutes per game, averaging 9.1 points, 2.4 rebounds, 4.4 assists, 1.1 steals and 0.3 blocks, and 1.4 turnovers and 1 foul. His shooting percentage was 51.9%, three-point shooting percentage was 30.6%, and free throw shooting percentage was 74%. In the playoffs, McConnell averaged 17.3 minutes in his first nine games, with averaging 9.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 0.4 steals, and 1.3 turnovers and 0.9 fouls. He shot 52.9%, three-point shooting percentage 50%, and free throw shooting percentage 91.7%.

McConnell's performance during the playoffs was really stable. His offensive efficiency has been further improved compared to the regular season stage. His offensive efficiency is very outstanding, and his three-point shooting percentage is even more impressive. Not only that, McConnell's performance in passing and organizing offense is also remarkable. With McConnell's performance in the playoffs, it is no exaggeration to say that he is the best substitute point guard in the league. He can play all aspects of his talents in limited playing time. He can stand up and take on more responsibilities when the team needs him. He can play an important role at critical moments. Having such an excellent point guard is a valuable asset to the Pacers.