Bennedict Mathurin Is Showing the Pacers He’s More Than Just a Scorer
Bennedict Mathurin’s game has always leaned toward isolation scoring. That’s where he’s most comfortable-ball in hand, defender in front, and the green light to go get a bucket.
But in Indiana, where the system thrives on ball movement and tempo, that style doesn’t always sync with the team’s identity. Still, after Monday night’s loss to the Houston Rockets, Mathurin made one thing clear: he’s all in on doing what it takes to help the Pacers win.
"I just go out there, and I just do what's asked," Mathurin said postgame. "I'm just trying to help my team win.
If it's to pass the ball, to make the extra pass, and play-make for my teammates, I'll do it. If it's scoring the ball down the stretch, I'll do it.
It's my greatest gift. I'm just trying to do what's good for my teammates."
That’s a shift in tone-and possibly in trajectory-for a player whose skill set has often been seen as a bit of a square peg in Indiana’s round-hole offense.
A Talented Scorer Learning to Adapt
Let’s be clear: Mathurin isn’t a selfish player. But his game is built around having the ball in his hands, creating space, and getting buckets.
That’s what he does best. Through parts of four seasons, he’s averaged 17.8 points per game on 44.4% shooting from the floor and 34.7% from three-strong numbers, especially considering he’s come off the bench in more than half of his career games.
When he’s locked in, he’s electric. He can score at all three levels, finish through contact, and make defenders pay in isolation.
His ability to cut to the rim with power and precision adds another layer to his offensive arsenal. But Indiana’s up-tempo, pass-heavy style doesn’t always make room for that kind of one-on-one rhythm.
And that’s where the friction has come in.
Growth in the Margins
What’s encouraging is that Mathurin is showing signs of growth-especially in the areas that have held him back from becoming a more complete player. Defense and playmaking have never been his calling cards.
His career assist-to-turnover ratio (1.8 assists to 1.9 turnovers per game) tells part of the story. So does the film, where he’s often caught ball-watching or reacting late on defensive switches.
But something’s shifting. And it’s happening at the right time.
This season, a contract year, Mathurin has taken noticeable steps forward. He’s making better reads, showing more patience, and starting to understand how to play within the flow of the Pacers’ offense. That’s not just lip service-head coach Rick Carlisle sees it too.
“I thought (Mathurin) played a terrific game,” Carlisle said after the loss to Houston. “His reads of situations, he's come so far.
He made some very good passes. He had four assists the last game.
He gets to the free-throw line. He causes problems.
He's really come a long way.”
Carlisle didn’t stop there. He pointed out how valuable Mathurin’s shot creation can be-especially against tough, physical teams like the Rockets.
“We needed to get him back. We just need the manpower and on a night like tonight where you've got a tough, physical team, he can get you 20, 25 points and help you stay in the game.”
A Crucial Decision Looms
With the trade deadline less than 24 hours away, Indiana’s front office has a decision to make. Mathurin’s name has come up in trade chatter, and it’s no secret the Pacers are looking to solidify their playoff push. But what Mathurin is showing-both on the court and in his mindset-should give them pause.
He’s proving he can be more than just a scorer. He’s showing a willingness to adapt, to grow, and to buy into the team concept.
That’s not always easy for young players, especially those whose games are built on individual talent. But Mathurin’s embracing it-and that might be the most important development of all.
Winning basketball isn’t just about numbers. It’s about players evolving to meet the moment. And right now, Bennedict Mathurin looks like a player who’s ready to do just that.