Potter’s Impact Minutes Give Pacers Something to Ponder Ahead of Guarantee Deadline
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Center Micah Potter, signed by the Indiana Pacers on December 26, is quickly influencing roster discussions as contract-guarantee decisions approach.
Potter logged a game-best plus-23 in 26 minutes during Wednesday’s two-point loss to Orlando despite modest counting numbers. Two days later, head coach Rick Carlisle started the 25-year-old over Jay Huff and Tony Bradley against San Antonio. Potter answered with 16 points and six rebounds in 28 minutes; Indiana was plus-4 while he was on the floor but fell by 10 overall.
“Micah just knows the game,” guard Andrew Nembhard said. “Plays hard, physical. He kind of just fits in.”
Mathurin Battles Foul Trouble
Friday was less smooth for second-year wing Bennedict Mathurin, who collected five fouls in fewer than 20 minutes and finished 1-for-6 from the field for two points. Carlisle urged patience, noting Mathurin is starting and ranks second on the roster in minutes. The 21-year-old will become a restricted free agent this summer if Indiana extends a qualifying offer.
Rookie Debut and Injury Watch
Rookie guard Kam Jones made his NBA debut Friday after missing time with a back issue, delivering a plus-16 in 10 reserve minutes. “When he goes in games, good things happen,” Carlisle said. “I like his energy.”
Forward Aaron Nesmith appeared to hurt his left hand in the same game, playing with taped fingers and occasional discomfort. His availability going forward is still unclear.
Source: Hoops Wire
