Less than four minutes remained, and the Pacers were wobbling precariously on a three-point lead over Orlando. Clearly, it was a situation that demanded poise and courage from the point guard.
Just as clearly, T.J. McConnell seemed perfect for the part. He had led the Pacers back from a seven-point deficit in the first quarter to a 10-point halftime lead and then played a major role in keeping them ahead in the fourth. He had contributed eight points, seven assists, and five rebounds and kept the offense functioning smoothly throughout.
Pacers fans could have been forgiven for flinching when Nate McMillan subbed out McConnell for Aaron Holiday during a timeout with 3:54 left.