T.J. McConnell is starting to get a better understanding of NBA tempo.
The 76ers backup point guard understands “who needs the ball, what play should be called, defensive rotations and on-ball pick-and-roll defense,” coach Brett Brown said. “You hear me talk about Jahlil [Okafor] being in 30, 40, or whatever pick-and-rolls a game. NBA point guards are the same, constantly in pick-and-rolls.
“He’s developed in a big way there.”
As a result, the 6-foot-2 rookie has settled in nicely as Ish Smith’s backup. The Western Pennsylvania native is also making his mark.
He’s the league’s only player to record seven or more assists in 15 or fewer minutes in three games this season.