Grade the Game: 3 Studs, 2 duds from Indiana Pacers win vs. Milwaukee Bucks

Stud - Benedict Mathurin

Last year, Bennedict Mathurin was one of the best rookies in the NBA. Coming off the bench for the majority of the season, his scoring and foul-drawing abilities stood out.

Unfortunately, over the course of the first few games of the season, Mathurin failed to match that level of play. He struggled with his efficiency, and his minutes reflected his struggles.

But over the past two games, Mathurin has been red hot, making his impact felt all over the court. He was great against the Utah Jazz on Wednesday, and on Thursday night against the Milwaukee Bucks, he was just as awesome.

The 21-year-old finished the game with 26 points (second-most on the team), 11 rebounds (most on the team), two assists, one steal, and one block while shooting 9-of-18 from the floor and 3-of-7 from behind the three-point line.

And if that weren’t enough, Mathurin’s one steal on the night was a clutch one.

With just over 30 seconds left in the game and the Pacers up by a single point, Mathurin got switched onto Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Bucks star drove, but Mathurin stripped him, getting possession back for Indiana.

He was hyped after the play, screaming in triumph while he walked down to the offensive end of the court. Mathurin’s performance on both ends earned him a high grade.

Grade: A-