Positive Injury Update for Bennedict Mathurin Amid Indiana Pacers’ Injury Woes
The Indiana Pacers have received some encouraging news regarding Bennedict Mathurin as they navigate through an injury-plagued season. The team has been significantly impacted by injuries since Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals, when Tyrese Haliburton suffered a torn Achilles tendon.
Mathurin had a strong start to the season, performing well in his first two games before sustaining a sprain to the big toe on his right foot during the October 25 matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies. Although no official timeline was provided for his recovery, he was initially considered to be week-to-week, according to James Boyd of The Athletic.
Coach Carlisle Shares Encouraging Progress on Mathurin’s Recovery
On November 15, Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle spoke with Dustin Dopirak of the Indianapolis Star and shared some positive updates about Mathurin’s condition. “He’s getting close. We did a simulated game kind of workout this morning. He went through things in prep today. He’s moving in a good direction,” Carlisle said.
Alongside Mathurin, the Pacers have had to manage injuries to several other key players this season, including TJ McConnell, Andrew Nembhard, Obi Toppin, Aaron Nesmith, Johnny Furphy, Quenton Jackson, and Kam Jones. While McConnell and Nembhard have already returned to action, Nesmith recently suffered a knee injury that will sideline him for about a month.
Mathurin Listed as Game-Time Decision Ahead of Next Game
The Pacers have yet to release an official injury report for their upcoming Monday game against the Detroit Pistons. However, ESPN has listed Bennedict Mathurin as a Game-Time Decision (GTD), indicating that his availability will remain uncertain until the game begins.
Mathurin is expected to participate in team warm-ups before the medical staff gives final clearance. The coaching staff might also impose a minutes restriction during his first game back to mitigate the risk of re-injury, especially given the team’s ongoing struggles with player health.
Indiana has previously taken a cautious approach with players returning from injury. For instance, Andrew Nembhard’s minutes have been capped at around 30 per game since his return from a shoulder injury on November 8, as reported by CBS Sports. TJ McConnell has similarly been limited, playing no more than 16 minutes in his first three games back from a left hamstring strain.
Contract Situation: Mathurin Set to Become Restricted Free Agent Next Summer
Looking ahead, the Pacers could face the prospect of losing Bennedict Mathurin in free agency next offseason. The team and Mathurin were unable to agree on a contract extension before the season began. Mathurin will enter restricted free agency, which means he can negotiate with other teams, but Indiana retains the right to match any offer.
Mathurin has expressed no concern over the lack of an extension deal, focusing instead on showcasing his abilities this season. He told Dustin Dopirak ahead of the season opener, “It’s not that big of a deal, man. Obviously, I would’ve loved to, but I’m not worried about that. It’s just about going into the game, going into the season with my mind straight knowing that, you know what? I’m going to have a great season. I can actually be who I’ve been wanting to be. There’s no worries for me about no extension.”
Before his toe injury, Mathurin was putting up impressive numbers, averaging 31.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game. His shooting efficiency was outstanding, with a 54.8% field goal percentage and 50.0% accuracy from beyond the arc.
As the Pacers hope for a healthy return from Mathurin, his contributions could be vital in helping the team overcome this challenging stretch.
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