Pacers’ Lineup Shift Positions Bennedict Mathurin for Bigger Role After Haliburton Injury
INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Pacers are adjusting their starting lineup for the 2025–26 NBA season, moving Andrew Nembhard into the point guard role and creating a larger opportunity for guard Bennedict Mathurin. The change follows the loss of Tyrese Haliburton, who will miss the entire season after tearing his right Achilles tendon during Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals.
Head coach Rick Carlisle confirmed the move during a preseason media session on Wednesday. “Andrew will start at point guard. Benn will have a bigger role on the wing. We want to maximize the strengths of the players we have available,” Carlisle said.
Mathurin, 22, was selected sixth overall in the 2022 NBA Draft and has averaged 15.6 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.4 assists over his first two seasons. Last season, he posted 14.6 points per game in 77 appearances, starting in 35. While recognized for his scoring ability, Mathurin’s role in Carlisle’s system has fluctuated, and he has yet to receive a contract extension despite becoming eligible this summer.
Background on the Change
Haliburton’s absence leaves a significant gap in the Pacers’ offense. The All-Star guard averaged 20.3 points and a league-leading 11.2 assists per game in 2024–25. His high-tempo, pass-first style was central to Indiana’s playoff run last season.
In his place, Nembhard will lead the offense. The 25-year-old Canadian guard averaged 10.2 points and 4.9 assists last season while starting in several games when Haliburton was injured. Analysts expect the shift to slow the team’s pace, potentially giving Mathurin more isolation and mid-range scoring opportunities.
Former NBA coach and ESPN analyst Jeff Van Gundy noted, “Mathurin thrives when he has room to attack one-on-one. Playing alongside Nembhard instead of Haliburton might create more of those situations.”
Impact on Mathurin’s Career
This season could be a pivotal moment for Mathurin’s future in Indiana. His rookie contract runs through 2026, with the 2025–26 season serving as the final guaranteed year before a potential restricted free agency. The Pacers can extend him before next summer, but sources indicate they want to see how he performs in an expanded role before making a long-term commitment.
Mathurin’s best statistical stretch came early in his rookie season, when he averaged 18.4 points through the first 20 games while coming off the bench. His scoring dipped as his role changed, and his defense has been a point of emphasis for Carlisle and the coaching staff.
“This is a huge chance for him,” said former Pacers guard Eddie Gill, now a team broadcaster. “With Haliburton out, there’s a scoring void. If Benn can fill it while improving defensively, it changes how the team views him long-term.”
Fan and Team Reactions
Pacers fans have expressed mixed emotions on social media. Many are concerned about losing Haliburton for the season but are encouraged by the opportunity for younger players. “I hate losing Tyrese, but I’m excited to see what Mathurin can do with more touches,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Carlisle emphasized that the team’s focus is on collective improvement, not just individual performances. “We’re not replacing Tyrese with one person,” he said. “Everyone has to step up.”
Roster and Season Outlook
The Pacers also added depth at center by re-signing Isaiah Jackson and are reportedly monitoring the free-agent market for frontcourt help. Forward Obi Toppin is expected to take on more offensive responsibilities as well.
Indiana finished last season with a 52–30 record, advancing to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2000 before losing to the Denver Nuggets in seven games. With Haliburton sidelined, the Pacers will need consistent contributions from multiple players to remain competitive in the Eastern Conference.
The team will open the regular season on October 22 against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
What’s Next for Mathurin
Mathurin has been training throughout the summer, focusing on ball-handling, mid-range shooting, and defensive footwork. Coaches believe these improvements will be critical to his success in a larger role.
If he performs well, Mathurin could secure a lucrative contract extension and solidify his place as a core piece of Indiana’s future. A disappointing season, however, could raise questions about his long-term fit.
For now, Carlisle and the Pacers are giving him the chance to prove himself. “He’s ready for the challenge,” Carlisle said. “Now it’s about going out and doing it every night.”