T.J. McConnell Set for Season Debut with Indiana Pacers

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Indiana Pacers guard T.J. McConnell is set to make his season debut against the Utah Jazz on Tuesday night. McConnell has been out for the first 10 games of the regular season due to a strained left hamstring sustained in the preseason.

The 11-year veteran averaged 9.1 points and 4.4 assists last season. With the Pacers struggling at 1-9, his return comes as a much-needed boost to an injury-plagued roster. Head coach Rick Carlisle noted that while McConnell will play, the team will monitor his playing time closely.

Last season, the Pacers reached the NBA Finals but have faced challenges this year. Tyrese Halliburton, a two-time All-Star, could miss the entire season after suffering a torn right Achilles tendon in the finals. Additionally, forward Obi Toppin is sidelined for at least three months due to a stress fracture in his right foot.

Before their matchup with Utah, the Pacers are tied for the second-worst record in the NBA. The Jazz, standing at 3-7, have also struggled recently, losing six of their last seven games. The Pacers swept Utah in their 2024-25 season series.

McConnell’s return comes at a crucial time for Indiana, as they are coping with an already thin point guard rotation. His presence allows for more flexibility and could ease the burden on Andrew Nembhard, who just returned from a shoulder injury.

In addition to McConnell, Indiana reports that Pascal Siakam and Aaron Nesmith are healthy and available for the game, while rookie Taelon Peter has been upgraded after dealing with a groin issue. The Jazz will be without veteran forward Kyle Anderson due to a back injury and Taylor Hendricks, who has a sore hamstring.

Former Pacer Georges Niang is not expected to play for the Jazz yet, as he continues his recovery after offseason acquisition.