The Indiana Pacers will be without one of their key young talents for Game 4 of their first-round playoff series against the Milwaukee Bucks. Coach Rick Carlisle announced before the game that guard Bennedict Mathurin will miss tonight’s matchup due to an abdominal bruise.
Mathurin, listed as questionable earlier in the day, has been an important contributor for Indiana during the series, averaging 12 points per game through the first three contests. His absence comes at a critical time, with the Pacers holding a narrow 2-1 series lead over the Bucks.
During the regular season, the 6’6″ guard posted strong numbers, averaging 16.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. His aggressive scoring and athleticism have been a major boost off the bench for Indiana all year long.
With Mathurin sidelined, the Pacers will need even more production from their backcourt and second unit to maintain their advantage against a hungry Milwaukee squad.
Game 4 tips off tonight, with Indiana looking to push the Bucks to the brink of elimination — but they’ll have to do it without one of their brightest young stars.
