Going back to the bench means Bennedict Mathurin's offensive approach could change and focus a little more on scoring than efficiency.

Obi Toppin and Bennedict Mathurin combined for 59 points and the Pacers rode their pressure defense to another second-half comeback.

How Bennedict Mathurin and Obi Toppin carried Indiana Pacers to win over Washington Wizards

The Pacers player came off the bench for just the second time since Aaron Nesmith's injury early in the season.

Turner's W.A.R.M foundation Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner discusses win against Memphis Grizzlies Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle discusses win against Memphis Grizzlies Bennedict Mathurin discusses his move back to the Pacers' bench Thomas Bryant discusses the Pacers' return from the All-Star break Rick Carlisle discusses an event benefiting his Drive and Dish foundation.

Obi Toppin had season highs of 31 points and 10 rebounds, and the Indiana Pacers rallied from a 19-point deficit to beat the NBA-worst Washington Wizards 134-130 in overtime on Wednesday night. Bennedict Mathurin scored 28 points and Tyrese Haliburton added 20 for the Pacers,

Pacers coach Rick Carlisle believes the offense is better balanced with Bennedict Mathurin coming off the bench.

Team Pacers, Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana, Bennedict Mathurin, Indiana, Myles Turner, Indiana

The Indiana Pacers have been on an impressive run in 2025, playing some of their best basketball of the season. They currently hold a 16-5 record in the new year, showing that they are a force to be reckoned with in the Eastern Conference.

The Indiana Pacers were able to survive a lot of injuries early in the season. Aaron Nesmith's injury just a few games into the season threw the starting lineup into chaos. Bennedict Mathurin was thrust into the starting lineup for a lot of the season.

The Indiana Pacers had to make Bennedict Mathurin the starting small forward very early in the season. After Aaron Nesmith hurt his ankle, they really had no choice. Nesmith's ankle sprain was so severe that he missed 35 games before coming back a couple of weeks prior to the All-Star break.

Mathurin better off bench? Halfway assessment