Young Clippers Guard Chasing Status as NBA’s Best Two-Way Star
A rising guard for the Los Angeles Clippers is setting ambitious goals early in his career. After delivering a strong performance off the bench in the team’s victory over the Chicago Bulls, Bennedict Mathurin made it clear that he is not satisfied with simply contributing offensively. The young guard revealed that his ultimate goal is to become the best two way player in the NBA. With guidance from veterans like Kawhi Leonard and defensive instruction from assistant coach Jeff Van Gundy, Mathurin believes his development on both ends of the floor is just beginning.
- Krishna Sagar
- 4 min read
The NBA is filled with talented scorers. Every season brings a new wave of young guards capable of putting up points in a hurry. But becoming a complete player in today’s league requires much more than offensive firepower.
Defense, discipline, and versatility often separate promising players from true stars. For Bennedict Mathurin, that distinction matters deeply. The young Clippers guard has made it clear that he does not want to be known only for scoring. His vision for his career goes beyond highlights and stat sheets. Mathurin wants to become one of the league’s elite two way players.
After helping the Clippers defeat the Chicago Bulls 119 to 108 at Intuit Dome on Friday night, Mathurin spoke openly about the standards he has set for himself. “Two way is not just something I’m saying to be out there,” Mathurin said. “I really want to be one of the best. I want to be the best two way in the NBA, so got to start somewhere to get somewhere.”
The comment reflected both ambition and maturity from a young player still carving out his place in the league.
1. Strong Bench Performance Sparks Clippers Victory
Mathurin backed up his words with a strong showing against Chicago. Coming off the bench, he scored 26 points and played a key role in helping the Clippers secure their fourth consecutive victory. His scoring bursts helped Los Angeles maintain control throughout the game while providing energy to the second unit.
The win improved the Clippers’ record to 34 and 32, strengthening their position in the Western Conference play in race. For Mathurin, the performance was another step forward in a season focused on growth.
When asked about his effectiveness coming off the bench, the guard emphasized the importance of reading defenses and applying pressure. “Just seeing how the defense plays, you know, finding ways to apply pressure,” Mathurin explained.
His ability to adapt quickly in different game situations has become one of his most valuable traits. Even as opponents prepare scouting reports specifically for him, Mathurin says his focus remains on making the correct play. “Obviously when I come in the game the defense has a scouting report for me, but I’m really just trying to make the right plays and win the game,” he said. “That’s the most important thing.”
2. Learning From Veterans
Mathurin’s development has been shaped heavily by the veteran presence surrounding him in the Clippers locker room. Players such as Kawhi Leonard have long been regarded as elite two way performers in the NBA. Watching how those veterans approach the game has provided valuable lessons for the young guard.
Mathurin praised Leonard’s consistency after the victory, particularly noting a franchise milestone the star recently matched. “It says a lot about him, on and off the court,” Mathurin said. “He’s a very consistent guy. It’s a great thing for him and for us as well.”
Being around experienced defenders has also helped Mathurin refine his approach on that side of the ball.“Being around guys like DJ, Kris, and Kawhi helps me see the game differently,” Mathurin said. “They’re great defenders, and I get to have them in my corner.”
The young guard believes those influences have already begun improving his defensive instincts.
3. Clippers Building Momentum
Mathurin’s two way contributions have arrived at an important moment for the Clippers.Los Angeles has begun to find rhythm during a critical stretch of the season. The team’s four game winning streak has placed them in a stronger position as they battle for playoff positioning in the Western Conference.
With the next game scheduled against the Sacramento Kings, the Clippers will look to continue building momentum. For Mathurin, the focus remains clear.
He understands that becoming one of the league’s best two way players will require consistency, discipline and relentless effort. But his recent performances suggest that he is already moving in that direction.
And if his ambition becomes reality, the Clippers may soon have another defensive force to complement their veteran stars on the roster.