Garrison Mathews Makes His Case in Indiana With Sharpshooting Showcase
The Indiana Pacers handed Garrison Mathews another 10-day contract this week, and the veteran wing wasted no time showing why he might be worth a longer look. In a loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, Mathews delivered his most impactful performance yet in a Pacers uniform-dropping 15 points on a perfect 3-for-3 from deep, while adding a rebound, an assist, and a steal in 25 minutes off the bench.
It wasn’t just a nice night-it was a statement.
For a player fighting to carve out a role on a roster with playoff aspirations, this kind of efficient, high-energy outing could go a long way. The Pacers clearly see something in the 29-year-old, and Monday’s performance only added weight to the idea that Mathews might be more than just a short-term roster filler.
Carlisle Believes in the Skillset
Before Mathews even stepped on the floor against Cleveland, head coach Rick Carlisle was already singing his praises. “He’s an NBA player with an NBA skill,” Carlisle said.
“He has gravity. The stats will take care of themselves.”
That “gravity” Carlisle mentioned? It’s no small thing.
In today’s NBA, where spacing is everything, a shooter who consistently draws defenders out to the perimeter can unlock a lot for an offense. And Mathews, a career 38.2% shooter from three over seven seasons, fits that mold to a tee.
He doesn’t need the ball in his hands to make an impact-his presence alone can shift defensive schemes.
What Mathews Brings-and What He Doesn’t
Let’s be clear: Mathews isn’t going to suddenly become a two-way star. His limitations are well-known.
Defensively, he struggles with awareness and can get overwhelmed by quicker or more physical matchups. He’s not a playmaker, and he’s not going to crash the glass with regularity.
But what he does bring-movement shooting, hustle, and floor spacing-can be incredibly valuable in the right system. And Indiana’s fast-paced, offense-first approach might be just the right fit. Carlisle’s system thrives when shooters can stretch the floor and keep defenders honest, and Mathews checks that box.
A Role Player With a Role to Play
No one’s expecting Mathews to turn into a foundational piece overnight. But that’s not what the Pacers need.
What they do need is reliable depth, especially as the season grinds on and rotations tighten. If Mathews can continue to knock down open looks, play with energy, and stay within his lane, there’s a very real path for him to stick around beyond this second 10-day stint.
His performance against the Cavaliers was the kind of night that can shift the conversation-from fringe roster guy to potential contributor. And while it’s still early, the momentum is tilting in his direction.
For now, Mathews has the opportunity. What he does with it in the coming days could determine whether this short-term deal turns into something more permanent. But one thing’s for sure-he’s made people in Indiana pay attention.