Former Arizona Wildcats and Philadelphia 76er T.J. McConnell four year contract is up, will he remain in Phily?
One of the most beloved former Arizona Wildcats of all-time and current Philadelphia 76er, T.J. McConnell, four-year contract is up. The question everyone has is will he stay? After signing a four-year non guaranteed deal for $4.47 million prior to the start of the 2015-16 season, he has become one the best teammates and a fan favorite in Phily. Even though he has been mainly used as a bench player, that hasn’t stopped him from making a positive impact for the 76ers.
A combination of a lot of factors have contributed to McConnell current role on the team. especially the last two seasons. One of those mains reasons being more athletic guards, Ben Simmons, J.J. Reddick, Jimmy Butler and Jerryd Bayless seeing more time and starting more games. Also, head coach Brett Brown decided not to utilize McConnell during this post season, only inserting him when the game was pretty much over in the 4th quarter. Maybe he should have played more? Could have made a positive difference with his energy and passion he brings!
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In his four seasons with the 76ers, he has averaged 6.4 points per game , 2.9 rebound per games and 4.7 assists per game. Over the course of his career at Philly, McConnell stats each season have remained the same at right around his career average. This season though his minutes per game dropped slightly from 22.4 to 19.3 during the regular season.
It’s important to remember the type of player that McConnell is. He is that type of player that may not light up the stat sheet, but it’s the little things he does that makes him such a valuable asset. From hustling after loose balls to getting the crowd pumped up or cheering on his teammates from the sidelines, these are all reasons why he should remain in Phily. Plus, his teammates love him too!
Recently one of the all-time greats, Dwyane Wade, showed his praise and respect for McConnell:
I’m a big fan of his. He plays with his heart. Not his height. Not his speed. Not his athleticism. https://t.co/h7SEoNf9iY
— DWade (@DwyaneWade) May 8, 2019
During his exit interview, McConnell paid respect to the city of Philadelphia and the 76er organization:
"This organization, this city, the fanbase... they stuck with me."@TJMcConnell talks about his connection to the city and the team over the past four years. pic.twitter.com/wEXcmj5gF3
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) May 13, 2019
After a disappointing 2nd round loss to the Toronto Rapters in the NBA Playoffs, the 76ers will be looking to make some moves to improve next season. Depending on who stays and who leaves, will have a big impact on whether McConnell stays in Phily. Jimmy Butler, who will be a free agent this offseason, is one of those players, that if he leaves, will open up playing time for McConnell.
McConnell will also have to evaluate his own situation as an unrestricted free agents. Even if the 76ers do offer a new contract to keep him, is it worth staying? This past season he was the second lowest paid player on the roster at a little over $1.5 million. McConnell may see that he is being under utilized and can have a much bigger role on team that is looking for someone with leadership, experience and court awareness, while at the same time getting paid more.
At Zona Zealots, we are extremely proud for what T.J. McConnell has accomplished in the NBA. Whatever may happen in the next chapter of his basketball career, he will always be loved by Wildcats fans for his passion and love for the game. Bear Down, Arizona!