Bennedict Mathurin will miss his third straight game with a left wrist sprain and other issues, but could return later this week.

The Indiana Pacers have been able to play some really good basketball since the start of 2025. Before the loss to the Heat on Friday night, they had the third-best record in the league since January 1.

The Indiana Pacers had to make Bennedict Mathurin the starting small forward very early in the season. After Aaron Nesmith hurt his ankle, they really had no choice. Nesmith's ankle sprain was so severe that he missed 35 games before coming back a couple of weeks prior to the All-Star break.

Indiana Pacers wing Bennedict Mathurin is programmed to score, regardless of whether he comes off the bench. However, Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle felt the need to tweak the team's lineup. Naturally, any lineup change will cause conversation among the team. After Carlisle changed the starting lineup, Mathurin reacted to the pivotal role shift.

Bennedict Mathurin needs to convert his athleticism and desire to improve defense for the Pacers to reach their potential

SportsLine's model just revealed its NBA picks and predictions for Thursday's Indiana Pacers vs. Atlanta Hawks matchup