Josh Hart and T.J. McConnell (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
T.J. McConnell and the Indiana Pacers are reportedly in negotiations for a long-term contract extension. This extension could see McConnell remain a Pacer for the remainder of his career. Meanwhile, New York Knicks’ star Josh Hart reacted to the news, taking a lighthearted jab at McConnell on his X account.

Hart humorously acknowledged McConnell’s worthiness of the extension but couldn’t resist adding a playful tease.

“He deserves it….you still annoying though,” he wrote.

McConnell has been a staple in Indiana since 2019 and is renowned for his tenacity and playmaking abilities. His recent performance was highlighted by a standout season with the Pacers, where he played a crucial role in their thrilling seven-game series victory over Hart’s Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

McConnell, whom Hart praised with a bizarre name, is entering the final year of his four-year, $33.6 million contract. McConnell’s consistent improvement and impact on the court have made him a valuable asset for the Pacers.

Seeing his surge, it’s natural that the Pacers team would try to lengthen his future in Indiana.

Indiana Pacers GM Applauds T.J. McConnell’s Standout Season

T.J. McConnell delivered his best season yet with the Indiana Pacers. His efforts were spectacular as he finished seventh in the voting for the Sixth Man of the Year award.

General Manager Chad Buchanan praised McConnell’s contributions and expressed optimism about his future with the Pacers.

“Phenomenal year for T.J. I don’t know what you can say more about T.J., what he has meant to this team. Beloved by his teammates, his coaches, the staff, the fans. He’s what you want an Indiana Pacer to be about,” Buchanan said.

McConnell’s impact was especially felt towards the end of the season, where he averaged an impressive 13.9 points per game over the Pacers’ final 19 outings.