Pacers' McConnell has hand surgery, reportedly could miss rest of season

Indiana Pacers guard T.J. McConnell will be in a cast for at least 10-12 weeks after undergoing surgery to repair torn ligaments in his right hand, the team announced Tuesday.

The Pacers will reassess McConnell after his cast comes off, but the point guard could miss the remainder of the 2021-22 season following the surgery, sources told ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

In 24 appearances this campaign, McConnell averaged 8.4 points, 4.8 assists, 3.3 rebounds, and a steal in 24 minutes per game. The 29-year-old re-signed with the Pacers on a four-year, $33.6-million contract this summer.

News of McConnell's injury outlook comes amid reports that Indiana is increasingly eyeing a rebuild and potentially willing to part with core players, including either Domantas Sabonis or Myles Turner, and shooting guard Caris LeVert.

If McConnell returns this season, the Pacers can deal him starting Jan. 15 and up to the Feb. 10 trade deadline.

Indiana currently owns a 10-16 (.385) record and sits 13th in the Eastern Conference.