Why media is wrong saying Banchero is clear ROTY over Pacers’ Mathurin

One plays among starting level teammates while the other plays with the backups.

Another key difference between the two players is that Mathurin plays with the backup rotation while Banchero plays with the starters. At first this may seem like an advantage for Mathurin, but it could just as easily function as a net negative for him.

Mathurin will consistently be playing with backup level players who may be able to convert less assists for Mathurin as well as open up offensive spacing and creativity on offense for Mathurin to operate. Because of this we would expect Mathurin’s numbers to take a small step back.

But the impressive thing? His numbers continue to be comparable even though he is playing less minutes, having the ball less, with less talented players. All that to say, Mathurin is able to make much more happen with much less. Something that probably isn’t getting as much airtime as it should.

We wouldn’t fault a rookie point guard for having less blocks than a rookie center? Then we probably shouldn’t fault someone for making a few less points/assists just because his role requires he have a ball a few less times.