Cavs: 2 realistic expectations for FA target T.J. McConnell with CLE
By Dan Gilinsky
#2: McConnell does a solid job defensively for the Cavs
Secondly, I’d expect McConnell to be a good defender at the point of attack for Cleveland if they were to sign him.
McConnell does a commendable job of pressuring opposing primary playmakers, and is one of those guys that can pressure in the backcourt, which can take opponents out of rhythm.
That to me could pay dividends for the Cavaliers, and would provide energy in spurts/stretches, and enable Cleveland to at times implement traps in early clock from there.
Along with the on-ball/pressure against opposing guards, McConnell has impressive instincts as a team defender, which can lead to his share of steals and deflections in his reserve minutes. McConnell led the league in steals last season and was tied for third in deflections per contest, per NBA.com’s hustle data.
His ability to make plays in passing lanes would make a difference for the Cavaliers in his PT, similarly to Larry Nance Jr. when he’s been mostly healthy, and McConnell and/or both doing so could lead to more high percentage transition opportunities going the other way.
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Moreover, while we’ll have to see if he chooses to return to Indy, it’s clear that T.J. could be a great free agency add for the Cavs, who I wouldn’t think are at all likely to bring back Dellavedova. And McConnell could be a meaningful on-floor leadership presence and seemingly quality locker room presence, too, as Dellavedova has historically been.