BREAKING: Pacers’ Bennedict Mathurin Ejected after Punches Throw, Tensions Boil Over in Game 4 against Cavaliers; Injury Blow to Indiana’s Second Unit
In a heated Game 4 between the Indiana Pacers and Cleveland Cavaliers, tensions escalated during the first quarter, leading to a shocking ejection. Pacers guard Bennedict Mathurin was sent off after he appeared to strike Cavaliers forward De’Andre Hunter in the midsection, leading to a retaliatory shove from Hunter that prompted Myles Turner to intervene. Following a lengthy review, Mathurin was deemed to have committed a Flagrant 2 foul and was ejected, while Hunter and Turner were issued technical fouls. The 22-year-old Mathurin, a crucial player for Indiana’s second unit, had only been on the court for a minute before his premature exit. In the 2025 playoffs, he has averaged 13.4 points and 2.7 rebounds per game.
Mathurin’s Embarrassing Exit: Pacers’ Guard Ejected in stairway punch against Cavaliers
tempestuous start to Game 4
The inaugural quarter of Game 4 between the Indiana Pacers and Cleveland Cavaliers simmered with tension, boiling over with adont a уда Va guard Bennedict Mathurin was tossed out in a scene that had jaws drop at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
the spark: inbounds drama
As the grill ticked towards the five-minute mark in the opening quarter, Mathurin was involved in an inbounds play that escalated rapidly. The French rookie seemed to throw a punch towards Cavaliers forward De’Andre Hunter’s midsection. In a swift response, Hunter pointed at Mathurin, then pushed him to the ground, inciting Pacers center Myles Turner to intervene and shove Hunter.
official review: flagrant 2 & ejections
After a lengthy review, the officiating crew deemed Mathurin’s action worthy of a Flagrant 2 foul, resulting in his ejection. Both Hunter and Turner were issued technical fouls but remained in the game. The officials’ decision raised eyebrows, as some observers argued that Hunter’s retaliation seemed more deserving of a suspension than Mathurin’s initial push.
mathurin’s strategy backfires
Mathurin, who had been on the court for a mere minute, seemed to believe he’d baited Hunter into committing an ejection-worthy foul. Ironically, it was Mathurin who found himself bidding an early farewell to the game. The 22-year-old had been making significant contributions during the playoffs, averaging 13.4 points and 2.7 rebounds in seven games, including a 20.3-minute average per contest.
Did you know?
Pro Tip: Mathurin’s ejection isn’t the first time this postseason that a player has been tossed for an inbounds skirmish. In the first round, Boston’s Jayson Tatum was ejected for shoving a Nets player in a similar situation.
the pacers’ loss
Mathurin’s absence could prove costly for the Pacers, particularly for their second unit. The guard’s energy and production have been instrumental in their postseason run thus far. His early exit in Game 4 could provide the Cavaliers with a significant advantage, especially if the Pacers’ role players are unable to step up in his absence.
looking ahead: potential trends
Mathurin’s ejection raises questions about the enforcement of unnecessary roughness penalties and the potential for morepunches to land in high-stakes playoff games. As the intensity increases, so does the risk of tempers flaring. Expect the league office to keep a watchful eye on such incidents moving forward.
Faq
Q: What is the punishment for a Flagrant 2 foul in the NBA?
A: A Flagrant 2 foul results in an automatic ejection and a potential suspension, depending on the severity of the action.
Q: Can a player be ejected for pushing during an inbounds play?
A: Yes, as seen in the Mathurin incident, a push can lead to an ejection if deemed unsportsmanlike or unnecessary.
call to action
Comment below: Do you think Mathurin’s ejection was justified? How will his absence impact the Pacers in Game 4 and beyond? Additionally, explore more of our NBA playoff coverage and be sure to follow 247sports.new for all the latest news, insights, and analysis.