Pacers' TJ McConnell Sounds Off About Kyrie Irving

The Indiana Pacers and point guard T.J. McConnell recently reached the NBA Finals but lost Game 7 to the Oklahoma City Thunder following Tyrese Haliburton's Achilles injury. McConnell gained significant recognition during this playoff run, particularly for his performance on basketball's biggest stage.

Throughout the Finals series against the Thunder, McConnell averaged 12 points, 4.3 assists, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.1 steals per game coming off the bench. His elevated play transformed him from a locally appreciated player to a league-wide name.

McConnell has recently increased his media presence and named Dallas Mavericks' Kyrie Irving as the toughest NBA player to guard during an appearance on the "Christian Kuntz Podcast." Despite McConnell's reputation as a tenacious defender, he specifically struggles against Irving.

McConnell explained Irving's exceptional difficulty to defend: "The ball's on a string. You're on an island... You could force him one way, but he still ends up getting where you don't want him. His handle is impeccable... It's a tough place to be mentally." He emphasized Irving's elite ball-handling, shooting ability, and unpredictability.

Irving is currently recovering from a torn ACL suffered last season, with no confirmed return date. The Mavericks anticipate his return during the 2025-26 NBA season.