Indiana Pacers Injury Report: T.J. McConnell Available for Game Against Utah Jazz
One day after Rick Carlisle indicated that T.J. McConnell was nearing a return, the Pacers have updated his status to questionable for tomorrow’s game against the Utah Jazz. Now, McConnell is confirmed as available for tonight’s matchup.
McConnell has not played this season due to a hamstring injury suffered in the preseason opener over a month ago. With Jeremiah Robinson-Earl’s initial 10-day hardship contract ending, McConnell can return if ready for tomorrow’s game.
However, Robinson-Earl has signed a second 10-day hardship contract, meaning the Pacers still qualify to keep both him and Martin on the roster despite injury challenges, as Tony East from Locked on Pacers explains.
Point Guard Rotation Updates
McConnell aims to join Andrew Nembhard, who recently returned, and Monte Morris, signed after recovering from a calf strain that delayed his preseason start. This suggests the Pacers might soon field their intended point guard lineup this season, even without Tyrese Haliburton.
Rick Carlisle noted McConnell was "getting closer to a return" before the blowout loss to the Warriors.
With these updates, Indiana’s injury list is gradually shrinking, offering hope for a more consistent lineup moving forward.
Author's Summary
T.J. McConnell’s return marks a key step for the Pacers as they rebuild their point guard rotation while managing ongoing injury setbacks.
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