Indiana Pacers: One bold prediction for each starter in 2022-23

Indiana Pacers starting SF: Bennedict Mathurin

Mathurin starts the season off the bench, usurps Oshae Brissett in the starting unit

This is essentially a double prediction. For the sake of easing the rookie into the league and to wage a better fight against teams with big time scorers, coach Carlisle may opt to go with Oshae Brissett to man the starting small forward spot to begin the season.

That, however, could very well be temporary. Carlisle has always preferred having 3-and-D types on the opening group, but rookie Bennedict Mathurin is the more well-rounded player. Oozing both offensive and defensive potential, he should be able to supplant his fellow Canadian and start games at some point.

By starting Mathurin, Indiana solves its problem of a lack of playmaking in the forward spots. It should also prompt the team to play even faster, using the rookie as a “glue” that binds smaller lineups together with his defensive malleability and acuity as a shot creator.

Oh, and we need that LeBron-Mathurin matchup right from the opening toss.