The Indiana Pacers hoped to record back-to-back wins against the top team in the NBA, the Cleveland Cavaliers. After the 15-point demolition though, the Cavs were charged with revenge. So tonight facing the Pacers at their home, they took command back. Moreover, the game had its emotions. In particular, the focus was Bennedict Mathurin. The third-year forward was ejected from the game, but there was a grey area.

See, Mathurin received his first technical foul for “doing a pull-up or a chin-up on the rim” after a dunk. Arguably, it was unfair, however, its become normal. The incident in the fourth quarter is what needed explanation. After being called for a defensive foul in the back-and-forth game, the 22-year-old shoved the official while arguing.

That was the second time Mathurin saw a ‘T’ sign and it warranted an ejection. In addition, according to NBA rules, any intentional contact with the officials leads to a one-game suspension without pay. So far, no news on that front is out. However, considering Mathurin technically got hit with three technical fouls, the moment could be taken by the committee for delegation.

Bennedict Mathurin was playing a pivotal role for the Pacers as a two-way threat prior to exiting the game. He compiled 19 points on 8-12 shooting to be the second-leading scorer for Indiana. With him on the floor, the Pacers looked threatening and never let the Cavaliers truly rest with their narrow lead.

However, the moment he was ejected changed everything.

How Bennedict Mathurin’s ejection turned the game around

Playing without Tyrese Haliburton, the Indiana Pacers put up a resilient effort to battle the top team in the NBA once again. By the time the fourth quarter began, they were only down 8. When you consider the fast-paced offense they run, such a lead is hardly sustainable. Bennedict Mathurin was no doubt one of the offensive pivots who could switch the tempo.

And right before being ejected, he did get another basket. However, the ruckus that followed from his arguing and bumping the female referee gave Cleveland a great cushion. Despite being assessed an earlier tech, Mathurin was penalized with “two technical fouls in a row” for unsportsmanlike conduct as per the pool report.

In that instant, the Pacers lost their second-best scorer on the night behind Pascal Siakam. As for the Cavs, Donovan Mitchell went to the line twice for the back-to-back techs on the 22-year-old. It was followed by two more free throws for Evan Mobley who was fouled on the play. The trip gave the Cavaliers three points when the damage could have been just one.

With Mathurin removed, the Pacers offense became rattled. For a stretch of three minutes, the Cavaliers held their rivals scoreless as they continued to enlarge their advantage. With Bennedict Mathrin’s exit also went the hopes of a fightback. The Pacers have severely improved in the middle part of the season.

Moreover, them having just ended the Cavaliers’ win streak, it would have been all to play for. The result may not have changed necessarily. However, with Mathurin, at least they would have a chance.