Indiana Pacers guard T.J. McConnell will miss a minimum of four weeks due to a left hamstring injury, head coach Rick Carlisle confirmed Thursday.
The update was first reported by NBA insider Marc Stein, who shared on X that McConnell’s absence adds to the team’s growing backcourt problems. Indiana is already without All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton, who was ruled out for the entire 2025–26 season earlier this fall.
McConnell’s injury comes at a difficult time for the Pacers, who rely heavily on his veteran leadership and playmaking off the bench. The 33-year-old guard appeared in 79 games last season, averaging 9.1 points and 4.4 assists while shooting 51.9 percent from the field.
Known for his energy and defensive effort, McConnell played an important role during the team’s 2025 playoff run, where he contributed 9.5 points and 4.0 assists per game in 23 appearances. His absence leaves Indiana without one of its most steady facilitators as training camp continues.
To address the depth issue, the Pacers have signed veteran guard Cameron Payne to a training camp deal. Payne, 31, brings postseason experience from previous stints with the Phoenix Suns, Chicago Bulls, Milwaukee Bucks, and New York Knicks. His addition provides short-term stability at the point guard position while the team evaluates further roster options.
Indiana opened its exhibition schedule with a 135–134 overtime win over the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 7, led by Dennis with 16 points and five assists. The Pacers continue preseason play on October 11 against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
McConnell’s recovery timeline will depend on how his hamstring responds to treatment, with a potential return projected in mid-November. Hamstring injuries can be unpredictable, and the Pacers are expected to take a cautious approach given the team’s already depleted backcourt rotation.
The Pacers open on October 23 at home against the Thunder before embarking on a four-game road trip.
