### Pacers' Bennedict Mathurin's Absence in Game 4: A Critical Blow to the Team The Indiana Pacers faced a significant setback in their first-round playoff series against the Milwaukee Bucks as guard Bennedict Mathurin was ruled out for Game 4 due to an abdominal bruise. This injury comes at a crucial time for the Pacers, who are looking to regain momentum after losing Game 3. Mathurin's absence is particularly impactful given his contributions in the series thus far, where he averaged 12 points and 3 rebounds per game, shooting 40% from the field [https://www.wishtv.com/sports/indiana-pacers/pacers-guard-bennedict-mathurin-ruled-out-for-game-4]. ### Breakdown of the Situation: Mathurin's Injury and Its Implications 1. **Injury Details**: - Bennedict Mathurin has been diagnosed with an abdominal bruise, which has sidelined him for Game 4 against the Bucks [https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44892264/pacers-bennedict-mathurin-misses-game-4-series-bucks]. 2. **Performance Context**: - In the series leading up to Game 4, Mathurin averaged 12 points and 3 rebounds, with a shooting percentage of 40% from the field and a disappointing 14.3% from three-point range [https://www.wishtv.com/sports/indiana-pacers/pacers-guard-bennedict-mathurin-ruled-out-for-game-4]. 3. **Team Impact**: - His absence leaves a significant void in the Pacers' lineup, as they attempt to compete against a strong Bucks team. Head coach Rick Carlisle confirmed the decision to rule Mathurin out before the game, emphasizing the importance of his health [https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/basketball/news/pacers-bennedict-mathurin-wont-play-in-game-4]. ### Supporting Evidence: Mathurin's Contributions and Team Dynamics - **Mathurin's Stats in the Series**: - **Points per Game**: 12 - **Rebounds per Game**: 3 - **Field Goal Percentage**: 40% - **Three-Point Shooting**: 2-14 (14.3%) [https://www.wishtv.com/sports/indiana-pacers/pacers-guard-bennedict-mathurin-ruled-out-for-game-4]. - **Team Performance Without Mathurin**: - The Pacers will need to adjust their strategy significantly to compensate for Mathurin's absence, especially after losing Game 3 and facing the pressure of a must-win situation in Game 4 [https://www.si.com/nba/pacers/news/pacers-make-final-decision-on-bennedict-mathurin-for-game-4]. ### Conclusion: The Road Ahead for the Pacers In summary, **Bennedict Mathurin's absence in Game 4 against the Milwaukee Bucks is a critical blow to the Indiana Pacers**. The team must navigate this challenge without one of their key players, who has been a consistent contributor in the series. 1. **Injury Impact**: Mathurin's abdominal bruise has sidelined him, affecting the team's depth and strategy. 2. **Performance Metrics**: His average of 12 points and 3 rebounds highlights his role in the lineup. 3. **Future Implications**: The Pacers need to adapt quickly to maintain competitiveness in the series. The outcome of Game 4 will be pivotal for the Pacers as they strive to keep their playoff hopes alive [https://www.seattlepi.com/sports/article/pacers-bennedict-mathurin-misses-game-4-of-20297399.php].