Chicago Bulls: Potential free agent adds from Philadelphia 76ers
By Ryan Heckman
Point Guard T.J. McConnell — Unrestricted
There aren’t many guys like T.J. McConnell on the free agent market this summer. This kid has been battling his entire collegiate and pro career to simply prove he belongs on the biggest stage. McConnell, once undrafted out of the University of Arizona, has one of the highest work ethics you’ll find in the pros today, and that comes from not knowing if he would finally make it.
Three years ago, McConnell became an incredibly valuable piece to the puzzle in Philly. He started 51 games for the Sixers right before “The Process” took off. Then, in 2017-2018, McConnell took a seat on the bench and saw his minutes reduced from about 26 to 22 per night.
Last season, the minutes dropped down to 19 per game — then, just 8.3 minutes in these 2019 playoffs.
Though his role changed over the years, his attitude didn’t He always did what was necessary to help the team win, and continued to work. McConnell is a true professional and his effort is never in question.
In his four years as a pro, McConnell has averaged 6.4 points and 4.7 assists per game. He’s never been the focal point of the offense, but he does the little things on both ends of the court. Could he be a long-term answer for the Bulls? Maybe. At the very least, he’d be a valuable sixth man.