Bennedict Mathurin Nearing Return, Expected Back During Road Trip

Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle is optimistic that Bennedict Mathurin (thumb) will return during the team's upcoming five-game road trip, spanning January 17-26. Mathurin completed a workout with Carlisle on Thursday and has another scheduled for Friday afternoon, indicating he's nearing a return. While he's progressing well, it's considered unlikely he'll play Saturday in Detroit, as the team prefers he completes a full practice before being cleared for game action.