The Indiana Pacers are in a fascinating spot as the trade deadline looms. They're reportedly in the market for a starting center-a move that could help round out their roster and support their playoff push. But as they explore options, one name keeps coming up in trade chatter: Bennedict Mathurin.
Let’s be clear-Mathurin might be a trade chip on paper, but in reality, the Pacers would be wise to think long and hard before moving him. Yes, he’s heading toward restricted free agency, and yes, there are still questions about his long-term role. But the upside Mathurin brings-especially in a scoring role-is something Indiana can’t afford to give away lightly.
Indiana’s Center Search: Who’s on the Radar?
The Pacers have been linked to several big men, including Ivica Zubac, Walker Kessler, Daniel Gafford, Yves Missi, and Onyeka Okongwu. On paper, it makes sense. They need a more traditional rim protector and interior presence to complement their perimeter-heavy attack, especially with Tyrese Haliburton orchestrating the offense.
But let’s look at the reality of these potential deals.
Zubac and Okongwu? Both are key pieces for their current teams-the Clippers and Hawks, respectively.
It would take a significant haul to pry either away, and Indiana would almost certainly have to include Mathurin in any serious offer. That’s a steep price for players who, while talented, don’t bring the same long-term ceiling or offensive punch.
Then there’s the next tier: Kessler, Gafford, and Missi. All three are solid, young bigs with upside.
But are they worth giving up a 23-year-old scorer with All-Star potential? That’s where the math starts to break down.
What Mathurin Brings to the Table
Sure, Mathurin isn’t a perfect player. He’s inconsistent at times.
His playmaking and defense still need work. And the Pacers haven’t fully figured out whether he’s best suited as a starter or a microwave scorer off the bench.
But here’s the thing: the guy can score. And in today’s NBA, that matters-a lot.
Through his young career, Mathurin has averaged 16.1 points per game while shooting 44.4% from the field and 34.8% from three. Those aren’t empty numbers, either. He’s doing this while often coming off the bench, adjusting to different roles, and still finding ways to impact the game offensively.
What makes him special is his ability to create his own shot. He can get downhill, pull up from midrange, or knock down catch-and-shoot threes. He’s the kind of player who can swing a game with a hot stretch-and that’s not something you replace easily.
Even when he’s not the focal point, Mathurin’s scoring gravity eases the load on Indiana’s other primary options. Tyrese Haliburton thrives in space and rhythm-Mathurin helps create both. Andrew Nembhard and Pascal Siakam benefit from having another perimeter threat who can get his own bucket when the offense stalls.
The Long Game
It’s tempting to chase a short-term fix, especially when there’s a clear positional need. And yes, Indiana does need to address its center rotation if it wants to make noise in the postseason.
But trading Mathurin for a non-star big man? That’s a move that could haunt them.
Players with Mathurin’s scoring instincts, athleticism, and upside don’t come around often. He’s already shown flashes of being a 20-point-per-game guy, and he’s only getting better. Unless a deal knocks the Pacers off their feet-and none of the rumored names do-it’s tough to justify moving him.
In a league where wings who can score at all three levels are at a premium, Indiana already has one. The smarter play is to keep developing Mathurin, figure out how to optimize his role, and find another way to address the frontcourt.
Because while centers can be found, scorers like Mathurin are much harder to replace.