T.J. McConnell Injury Update: Coach Shares Positive Progress
Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle offered a promising update on veteran point guard T.J. McConnell, who has been out since early October with a left hamstring strain. According to Carlisle, McConnell has been steadily increasing his workload and is nearing a return to full participation.
“I know he had a workout today. I hadn’t heard how that went, but I heard he’s been ramping up pretty steadily,” said Carlisle, as reported by Dustin Dopirak of The Indianapolis Star.
McConnell, 33, sustained the injury on October 7 during the team’s preseason opener. Initial estimates anticipated his absence for at least a month. Carlisle’s recent comments indicate it is the first significant sign of progress since that early projection.
Impact on the Pacers’ Roster
The Pacers’ backcourt has faced considerable strain this season due to multiple injuries. Rookie guard Kam Jones, the 38th overall pick in the 2025 draft, has also been sidelined since early October with a lower back stress reaction.
Carlisle noted that Jones “is improving” but added that “his return is not imminent,” confirming a cautious recovery approach.
Following their strong run as last season’s Eastern Conference champions, the Pacers have started slowly this year with a 1–8 record, battling through a string of injuries to key players.
Author’s Summary
Carlisle confirmed steady recovery progress for T.J. McConnell while stressing patience with rookie Kam Jones, as the Pacers navigate early-season injury challenges.