Bennedict Mathurin and Thomas Bryant show important parts of Pacers growth

Two of many improved players

NBA: Indiana Pacers at Boston Celtics

Dec 29, 2024; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Indiana Pacers center Thomas Bryant (3) reacts after making a basket during the first half against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images

Bob DeChiara/Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images

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Bennedict Mathurin’s Impressive Growth: A Deep Dive into His Recent Performance

Bennedict Mathurin has been turning heads lately with his improved play for the Indiana Pacers. Rick Carlisle has singled out Mathurin’s performances in positive ways after recent games, highlighting the subtle changes in his game that have made a significant impact.

One of the most noticeable improvements in Mathurin’s game is his decision-making speed. He’s making quicker choices with the ball, whether it’s taking open catch-and-shoot threes or driving to the basket. This newfound decisiveness has opened up his game and made him more unpredictable for defenders.

Mathurin’s off-ball movement has also seen a marked improvement. He’s become more adept at reading the defense and making timely cuts or setting screens. This has allowed him to blend in better with the team’s offense while still maintaining his scoring threat.

The numbers back up Mathurin’s growth. Since a pivotal game against Philadelphia, the Pacers have been +92 with Mathurin on the floor, a significant improvement from earlier in the season. His offensive rating has jumped from 114.8 to 120.9, while his defensive rating has improved from 116.5 to 108.2.

Mathurin’s development isn’t limited to offense. His defensive efforts have become more focused and effective. While his steals per game have decreased, it’s a result of more disciplined defensive positioning rather than gambling for steals.

Another area of improvement is Mathurin’s playmaking. His assist-to-turnover ratio has become positive, primarily due to an increase in assists while maintaining his turnover numbers. This shows a growing understanding of the game and improved court vision.

Mathurin’s shooting efficiency has also seen an uptick. He’s now in the 63rd percentile for spot-up shooting, up from the 52nd percentile last season. Even more impressive is his improvement in shots off screens, jumping from the 27th percentile to the 92nd.

These improvements have solidified Mathurin’s place in the starting lineup, even with the potential return of Aaron Nesmith. His growth has been crucial to the Pacers recent success and bodes well for the team’s future.

For more insights and a deeper dive into Bennedict Mathurin’s development, tune into the Locked On Pacers podcast for this and much more.

Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Pacers Podcast:

• Thomas Bryant’s impact as the Pacers new backup center

• Tyrese Haliburton’s questionable status for the upcoming game against the Bulls

• A preview of the Pacers-Bulls matchup

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