The Indiana Pacers are going to learn everything they need to know about Bennedict Mathurin during the 2025-26 season. With Tyrese Haliburton set to miss the entire year, the team’s offensive identity will shift, and there will be no better opportunity for Mathurin to show whether he belongs as a long-term piece in Indiana’s core. This is not about whether he can hold his own, but about whether he can truly reach a new level.
The Pacers know how important scoring balance will be without Haliburton. That burden cannot fall solely on Pascal Siakam or Andrew Nembhard. If Indiana is going to hold firm in the Eastern Conference standings and have a chance at making another meaningful postseason run, Mathurin has to step into the void.
There is not much room for him to stay in the middle ground anymore. Either he proves himself as a high-level scorer who can consistently create offense, or the Pacers will be forced to reconsider what role, if any, he should play in their long-term plans.
2025-26 will be Bennedict Mathurin's grand opportunity
That may sound harsh, but the time for projection is over. Mathurin is heading into his fourth NBA season, and this group has proven the kind of ridiculous postseason achiever they can be. The Pacers are trying to win now, and they need players who can rise with the moment, not just fit in.
There were signs of that potential from Mathurin in Game 7 of the Finals. With Haliburton already sidelined, Mathurin showed glimpses of what he can be when given more usage and offensive freedom. He attacked the rim, made strong reads, and looked far more composed than at other points during the postseason. That game was encouraging, and it may serve as a preview of what this season could look like if he builds on that momentum.
Still, there will be growing pains. Mathurin has to improve in a few key areas, but this is the year for clarity. There is no hiding behind a reduced role or inconsistent minutes. The Pacers need him to step forward, and in doing so, they will finally get their answer.
Is Bennedict Mathurin going to be a key pillar of Indiana’s future, or is he simply a valuable trade piece waiting to be flipped? One way or another, the Pacers will know by this time next year.