Pacers instantly regret passing on Bennedict Mathurin extension

Bennedict Mathurin looked elite during the Pacers' season opener, and he is well on his way to getting a big payday next summer.

Indiana Pacers wing Bennedict Mathurin during Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the Milwaukee Bucks. | Michael Hickey/GettyImagesThe Indiana Pacers chose not to extend Bennedict Mathurin in the offseason. And just one game in, this is already beginning to look like a bad call for the team.

In Indiana's season-opening loss against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Mathurin recorded a team-high 36 points on 9-for-19 shooting, 11 rebounds, and one assist in 45 minutes before fouling out. The Canadian native had a fantastic game and arguably looked like the best player…