Starting Point
The Bennedict Mathurin contract is one of the most talked-about topics in the NBA right now. Furthermore, it is easy to see why. Mathurin is a 23-year-old scorer with elite potential. However, his path to a big payday has been anything but simple. In this article, we break down everything clearly and simply. We cover his rookie deal, his failed extension, his trade to the Clippers, and what comes next in the summer of 2026.
Who Is Bennedict Mathurin?
Bennedict Mathurin is a Canadian professional basketball player. He was born on June 19, 2002, in Montreal, Quebec. Moreover, he grew up in a Haitian family and trained at the NBA Academy Latin America in Mexico. He later attended the University of Arizona. There, he became one of the best scorers in the Pac-12. As a result, the Indiana Pacers drafted him sixth overall in the 2022 NBA Draft.
Early Career Highlights
Mathurin had a strong start in the NBA. He earned All-Rookie First Team honors in his debut season of 2022-23. Furthermore, he showed real scoring ability from day one. He can score at the rim, from mid-range, and from three. However, his three-point shooting has been inconsistent throughout his career. In addition, his defense and playmaking still need improvement.
Career Stats Overview
In 2024-25, Mathurin averaged 16.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. He shot 45.8 percent from the field. However, he shot only 34 percent from three. Those numbers showed growth. Nevertheless, they also showed areas that still need work.
Bennedict Mathurin Rookie Contract With Indiana Pacers
Mathurin signed his rookie contract with the Pacers on July 3, 2022. The deal was worth $29,936,173 in total. Furthermore, the entire contract was fully guaranteed. The average annual salary was $7,484,043.
Year by Year Salary Breakdown
The contract had four years in total. However, the Pacers held team options on years three and four. Here is the full breakdown:
| Season | Team | Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | Indiana Pacers | $6,038,520 | Guaranteed |
| 2023-24 | Indiana Pacers | $7,482,080 | Guaranteed |
| 2024-25 | Indiana Pacers | $7,251,120 | Team Option Exercised |
| 2025-26 | Indiana / Clippers | $9,187,573 | Team Option Exercised |
| Total | $29,936,173 | Fully Guaranteed |
Team Options Exercised
Indiana exercised the third-year option in October 2023. They then exercised the fourth-year option in October 2024. As a result, Mathurin entered the 2025-26 season earning $9,187,573. Moreover, that decision set the stage for the extension talks that would follow.
Why Bennedict Mathurin Did Not Get a Contract Extension
The summer of 2025 was critical for Mathurin. He was eligible for a rookie contract extension. However, talks between Mathurin and the Pacers broke down. As a result, he entered the 2025-26 season without a new deal.
Financial Constraints Played a Big Role
Indiana faced serious money problems heading into the 2025-26 season. Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton tore his Achilles in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals. Consequently, the Pacers decided to stay below the luxury tax for the next two seasons. Therefore, committing to a large extension for Mathurin simply did not fit their plan.
Fit Was Also a Concern
Furthermore, there were real questions about fit. Mathurin is best as an isolation scorer. However, Indiana prefers a high-pace, pass-heavy style of play. As a result, those two things never fully clicked together during his time in Indianapolis.
How Much Was Mathurin Worth?
Analysts predicted Mathurin could have earned up to $95 million over four years. Some projections went even higher at $240 million over five years at the maximum scale. Nevertheless, Indiana chose not to take that financial risk. As a result, the October 20, 2024 deadline passed with no deal done.
Mathurin’s Reaction
Mathurin handled the situation well publicly. He stayed positive and focused. Furthermore, he said he was not worried about what could have been. “It’s not that big of a deal, man,” he said at the start of the season. As a result, both sides kept their relationship in a good place heading into the year.
The Trade to the Los Angeles Clippers — February 2026
The biggest development in the Bennedict Mathurin contract story came on February 5, 2026. On that day, Indiana traded him to the Los Angeles Clippers. Moreover, the trade sent shockwaves through the NBA world.
Trade Details Breakdown
The Clippers sent center Ivica Zubac and guard Kobe Brown to Indiana. In return, LA received the following:
| Asset Received by Clippers | Details |
|---|---|
| Bennedict Mathurin | 23-Year-Old Scoring Guard |
| Isaiah Jackson | Young Forward |
| 2026 First-Round Pick | Protected 1-4 and 10-30 |
| 2029 First-Round Pick | Unprotected |
| 2028 Second-Round Pick | Dallas Pick |
Why Indiana Made the Trade
Indiana needed a starting center. Furthermore, they got a proven big man in Zubac. Moreover, they collected valuable draft picks for a rebuilding team. Additionally, trading Mathurin avoided a difficult summer decision about his contract.
Why the Clippers Made the Trade
The Clippers were building around youth. Furthermore, they had just acquired Darius Garland from Cleveland. As a result, adding Mathurin gave them another young scoring threat. Moreover, his restricted free agency status gave them control over his future. Clippers president Lawrence Frank called the trade extremely difficult but necessary.
Bennedict Mathurin Stats With the LA Clippers
After joining the Clippers, Mathurin showed flashes of his true ability. Furthermore, he set a career-high early in his Clippers tenure. However, his performance was inconsistent by the end of the season.
Full Clippers Stats Summary
| Stat | Total |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 26 |
| Points Per Game | 17.4 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 5.5 |
| Assists Per Game | 2.5 |
| Steals Per Game | 1.0 |
| Minutes Per Game | 28.0 |
| Three-Point Percentage | 20.7% |
| Field Goal Percentage | 43.1% |
| Career High Points | 38 vs Denver Nuggets |
The Highs and the Lows
His best moment came in his first home game at Intuit Dome. He scored 38 points against Denver. Moreover, he made five of six three-pointers in his final regular season game. However, in April he slumped badly. He averaged only 10.3 points and shot just 36.7 percent from the field. Furthermore, his three-point percentage dropped to 21.4 percent. As a result, questions arose about his consistency heading into free agency.
Bennedict Mathurin Restricted Free Agency Summer 2026
This is the most important part of the Bennedict Mathurin contract story right now. Furthermore, it is the question every NBA fan and analyst wants answered. What happens this summer?
What Is Restricted Free Agency?
Restricted free agency gives Mathurin the right to sign with any team. However, the Clippers can match any offer he receives. Furthermore, they have two days to decide after another team makes an offer. As a result, other teams are often reluctant to pursue restricted free agents. Consequently, Mathurin’s market may be smaller than his talent deserves.
The Qualifying Offer
The first step is for the Clippers to extend a qualifying offer. For Mathurin, that offer is worth $8.8 million for one year. Furthermore, if the Clippers do not extend this offer, Mathurin becomes an unrestricted free agent. As a result, the Clippers would lose all matching rights. Consequently, it is almost certain the Clippers will extend the qualifying offer.
What Teams Could Pursue Mathurin?
Several teams have cap space this summer. Furthermore, the Bulls, Lakers, and Nets all have significant room to offer. Additionally, the Hawks and Pistons could also create enough space to make a run at him. However, each of those teams must weigh whether the Clippers will simply match their offer. As a result, the restricted tag significantly reduces the competition for Mathurin’s services.
What Will Mathurin’s Next Contract Look Like?
Industry analysts project Mathurin’s next deal at around $55 to $65 million over three to four years. Furthermore, the starting salary would be approximately $15.1 million per year. However, some analysts suggest a two-year deal similar to the Jonathan Kuminga blueprint could make more sense. Moreover, a shorter deal would give Mathurin a chance to hit unrestricted free agency sooner. As a result, both sides could benefit from a flexible short-term agreement.
What the Clippers Think About Mathurin’s Future
Clippers president Lawrence Frank spoke publicly about Mathurin’s free agency after the season ended. Furthermore, his words were very revealing about how the organization views the young guard.
Lawrence Frank’s Exact Thoughts
Frank said the Clippers have the right to match any offer. Moreover, he praised Mathurin’s work ethic and character. Furthermore, he pointed to Mathurin’s age as a major reason for optimism. “At 23, some of the weaknesses that Benn has, he’s going to get incrementally better at those things because he’s a worker,” Frank said. “I think he has good DNA.”
What Mathurin Said
Furthermore, Mathurin made his feelings clear at his end-of-season press conference. He said Los Angeles already feels like home. Moreover, he said he wants to stay if things align. However, he also acknowledged the business reality. “It’s never really home, it’s only temporary,” he added honestly.
Bennedict Mathurin Full Profile at a Glance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bennedict Richard Felder Mathurin |
| Date of Birth | June 19, 2002 |
| Age (2026) | 23 Years Old |
| Birthplace | Montreal, Quebec, Canada |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Height | 6 ft 6 in (198 cm) |
| Position | Shooting Guard / Small Forward |
| College | University of Arizona |
| Draft Year | 2022 |
| Draft Pick | 6th Overall |
| Original Team | Indiana Pacers |
| Current Team | Los Angeles Clippers |
| Trade Date | February 5, 2026 |
| Rookie Contract Value | $29,936,173 |
| 2025-26 Salary | $9,187,573 |
| Agent | Nima Namakian — WME Basketball |
| Free Agency Type | Restricted Free Agent |
| Qualifying Offer | $8.8 Million |
| Projected Next Deal | $55-65 Million Over 3-4 Years |
| Career High | 38 Points vs Denver Nuggets |
| NBA Honors | All-Rookie First Team 2022-23 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Bennedict Mathurin Contract
What is Bennedict Mathurin’s current contract?
He is in the final year of his rookie deal worth $29,936,173 over four years, earning $9,187,573 in 2025-26.
Why did Mathurin not get a contract extension with Indiana?
Indiana faced financial limits after Haliburton’s injury and had concerns about his fit in their system, so both sides failed to agree on a new deal.
When did the Clippers trade for Mathurin?
The Clippers acquired Mathurin from Indiana on February 5, 2026, in a deal centered around Ivica Zubac going the other way.
Is Mathurin a restricted or unrestricted free agent?
He is a restricted free agent, which means the Clippers can match any offer he receives from another team.
What is Mathurin’s qualifying offer amount?
His qualifying offer from the Clippers is a one-year deal worth $8.8 million.
How much will Mathurin’s next contract pay him?
His next deal projects to be worth $55 to $65 million over three to four years, starting at roughly $15.1 million per year.
Does Mathurin want to stay with the Clippers?
Yes, he publicly said after the season that Los Angeles feels like home and he wants to stay if the terms work out for both sides.
What were Mathurin’s stats with the Clippers?
He averaged 17.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.0 steal per game in 26 appearances after the trade.
What is Mathurin’s career high in points?
He scored 38 points against the Denver Nuggets in his first home game at Intuit Dome after the 2026 All-Star break.
Which teams could sign Mathurin in free agency?
The Bulls, Lakers, Nets, Hawks, and Pistons all have enough cap space to make an offer, though the Clippers can match any deal.
Final Thoughts on Bennedict Mathurin Contract
The Bennedict Mathurin contract situation is one of the most compelling stories in the NBA offseason of 2026. Furthermore, it carries real stakes for both the player and the Clippers organization. On one hand, Mathurin is a 23-year-old scorer with real upside and a desire to stay in LA. On the other hand, his inconsistent shooting and defensive limitations create genuine uncertainty about his value on a long-term deal.
Moreover, the restricted free agency structure actually helps the Clippers manage the risk. They do not need to rush or overbid. Instead, they can wait, let the market speak, and decide whether to match. As a result, LA holds all the leverage in this situation.
Ultimately, the summer of 2026 will define the next chapter of Mathurin’s career. Furthermore, it will shape the Clippers’ financial future for years to come. Above all, one thing is clear — Bennedict Mathurin has the talent to earn a big contract. Consequently, the only real question is where and with whom that contract will be signed.