In a major development that could reshape the Indiana Pacers’ roster heading into the 2025-26 NBA season, rising star Bennedict Mathurin has reportedly informed the organization of his desire to explore a move away from the franchise.
Sources close to the situation say Mathurin, 22, has grown increasingly uncertain about his long-term fit in Indiana and is seeking a fresh start—either via trade or through positioning himself for future free agency.
Mathurin, the sixth overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, has emerged as one of the league’s most dynamic young guards, averaging 18.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game over his three seasons with the Pacers. Known for his explosive athleticism, fearless scoring ability, and improved defensive play, Mathurin was widely considered a cornerstone of Indiana’s youth movement alongside All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton.
However, sources indicate that concerns about his role, usage, and long-term vision within the Pacers’ evolving system may have contributed to his desire to seek new opportunities.
Pacers’ Response
The Pacers front office, led by GM Chad Buchanan, has yet to issue an official statement, but league insiders suggest the team was taken aback by the news. Indiana had previously viewed Mathurin as untouchable in trade talks and envisioned him as a central figure in their rebuilding efforts.
Now, with Mathurin signaling interest in a potential departure, the Pacers may be forced to re-evaluate their roster strategy this offseason. Interest around the league is expected to be high, as multiple teams have already reportedly inquired about Mathurin’s availability.
What’s Next?
Mathurin has not publicly commented on the matter, and it remains unclear whether he’s requesting an immediate trade or simply opening the door to exploring other opportunities down the line. His current rookie-scale contract runs through the 2025-26 season, with a team option for 2026-27, giving Indiana some leverage in negotiations.
Still, in today’s NBA, player movement can escalate quickly—especially when a young star expresses a desire to move on.
This situation will be closely monitored in the days and weeks ahead, with significant implications not only for Indiana’s trajectory but for the broader landscape of the Eastern Conference.
Potential Suitors
Among the teams rumored to have interest in Mathurin are the Orlando Magic, San Antonio Spurs, and Golden State Warriors—all franchises with cap flexibility and a need for an aggressive, high-upside scoring guard.
Whether Mathurin’s future lies elsewhere remains to be seen, but one thing is now certain: change could be coming to Indiana, and it may begin with the departure of one of their brightest young stars.
