Pacers Release Mac McClung, Officially Sign Monte Morris
In a significant roster move, the Indiana Pacers have officially signed veteran point guard Monte Morris. This decision comes after Morris’s earlier medical evaluation revealed a calf strain that limited his participation during training camp. As the Pacers face pressing issues at the point guard position, they have opted to secure Morris through a one-year non-guaranteed contract.
Release of Mac McClung
In conjunction with Morris’s signing, the Pacers have waived guard Mac McClung. Despite being on a multi-year contract, McClung spent only 10 days with the team. He participated in three games, averaging 6.3 points but had limited playtime.
Player Statistics and Background
- Monte Morris:
- Age: 30 years
- NBA Experience: 8 years
- Career Averages: 9.5 points, 3.6 assists, 0.7 turnovers per game
- Shooting Percentage: 47.4% overall, 38.9% from three-point range
- Previous Teams: Nuggets, Wizards, Pistons, Timberwolves, Suns
- 2022-23 Season Average: 5.2 points, 1.6 assists with the Suns
- Mac McClung:
- Notable Achievement: Three-time NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion
- Former G League MVP
- Games Played with Pacers: 3
- Average Points: 6.3 over three games
- Limited Playtime: 2 minutes and 17 seconds in the recent loss to the Bucks
Pacers’ Point Guard Challenges
The Pacers are currently grappling with significant point guard shortages. All-Star Tyrese Haliburton is sidelined for the entire season due to a torn Achilles tendon. Additionally, back-up veteran T.J. McConnell and Andrew Nembhard have suffered injuries, complicating the team’s strategies.
This urgency was highlighted by the impressive performance of two-way contract player Quenton Jackson. Jackson previously impressed with 25 points and 10 assists in a recent game against the Warriors.
As the Pacers navigate these challenges, the addition of Monte Morris could provide much-needed stability to their roster.
