Why Bennedict Mathurin Will Win Rookie of the Year

Benedict Mathurin, Indiana Pacers (Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images)
Benedict Mathurin, Indiana Pacers (Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images) /
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Bennedict Mathurin, Indiana Pacers (Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images) /

The case for Mathurin

Through 29 games played this season, Bennedict Mathurin is averaging 17.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in just 29 minutes per game. Those numbers fall just slightly behind Banchero’s season averages, but they come from a much more restricted role. While he also leads his team in usg%., Mathurin’s 25.5 usg% is almost 3 percentage points lower than Banchero’s 28.1.

If we take a look at the two players on a per 36-minute basis, their statistical profiles smooth out closer to even. Both players average about 22 points per 36, and while Banchero still averages more assists and rebounds per 36 than Mathurin, he also turns the ball over more and only grabs the same number of offensive rebounds. Still, Banchero’s advanced numbers outshine Mathurin’s. His rebound percentage, assist percentage, and free throw attempt rate all surpass Bennedict’s.

The one area that really stands out in the case for Mathurin over Banchero is efficiency. Mathurin’s efficient field goal % (.492), free throw % (.806), and true shooting % (.559) are all higher than Banchero’s, despite having already taken 42 more shots on the season.