Josh Hart Calls T.J. McConnell ‘Annoying’ Amid Eastern Conference Finals

INDIANAPOLIS — One year ago, Josh Hart described veteran Pacers guard T.J. McConnell as “an annoying little s–t” during a playoff series. That remark, which could have seemed insulting, was actually a compliment coming from Hart.

As the Knicks face the Pacers in this year’s Eastern Conference finals, McConnell continues to prove Hart’s description right. In the first two games of the series, McConnell, a 10-year NBA veteran, came off the bench to score 10 points in 14 minutes during each game, showcasing his impact against the Knicks.

“Our bench has done a really good job. I thought McConnell was terrific,” Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said after Game 2. “At this time of year you have to play with a certain attitude, you have to play with a defiance.”

Carlisle praised McConnell specifically, stating, “He’s done a great job throughout the playoffs of playing his game and not allowing difficult situations to deter his focus.”

During last year’s postseason meeting, Hart noted the similarities between himself and the undersized McConnell, both known for getting under their opponents’ skin. Hart joked that he was “a little taller, more handsome” but still admired McConnell’s skills.

“T.J. McConnell is an annoying little s–t that just runs around, causes chaos, picks up 94 feet defensively,” Hart remarked at the time. “You’ve got someone in T.J. who could be a starting point guard for any other team in this league.”

In last year’s elimination series against the Knicks, McConnell averaged 11.9 points and 6.0 assists in 20.6 minutes per game, including an impressive 18-point performance in Game 1.

“He is someone who is doubted, he doesn’t pass the eye test,” Hart added. “But he’s extremely gritty and can deliver strong stats across the board.”