How Did Bennedict Mathurin Respond to Role Change?

Carlisle commended Mathurin for his production following the lineup shift. 

"Benn's taken this opportunity and run with it," Carlisle said. "His numbers have been great individually, and we were able to pull out a miracle win in large part because of what he did against Washington."

Mathurin led the team with 28 points off the bench, combatting Wizards Jordan Poole's 42-point performance. In addition to his athletic prowess, his scoring motor elevates the wing and the Pacers to a formidable level. 

More importantly, though, confidence is key, especially during a role change that many could perceive as a demotion.

Mathurin has ultimate faith in his abilities, regardless of whether he starts or comes off the bench. 

"For me, it's the same thing whether I start or not or come off the bench," Mathurin said. "I still have the same mentality. At the end of the day, we have 29 games left. Everybody's trying to win and trying go to the playoffs and have a deep run again. I feel like everybody has the same mindset, and that's pretty much what we need."

The Pacers host the Memphis Grizzlies on Thursday. Against the young and physical Western Conference team, Mathurin's skillset could further help make Carlisle's case,

If the Pacers wish to succeed, Mathurin must appreciate his new role and excel as an explosive scorer off the bench. Otherwise, a potential crack in their chemistry could prevent them from maintaining the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference.