Payton Pritchard will be a swing factor for the Celtics
The Boston Celtics head into the NBA playoffs as the favorites to win it all. They've dominated the Eastern Conference and ended the season with the best record in the NBA. Their roster is loaded with talent. Their top six is arguably the most talented in the league. Yet, their backup point guard is emerging as a potential game-changer heading into the postseason.
Last season, Payton Pritchard struggled to break into head coach Joe Mazzulla's rotation. He was stuck behind Malcolm Brogdon on the Celtics bench. Brogdon ended the season as the 2023 Sixth Man of the Year. However, he was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers as part of the Jrue Holiday deal.
That allowed Pritchard to step into a bigger role. He has played all 82 regular-season games. Over the last two months, he's thrived as both a scorer and a playmaker.
Pritchard has set a new career high in points scored in each of his last two outings. He's also thrived when he creates space via contact around the rim.
“I really appreciate his growth as a player, what he’s done for the team, and how he’s brought his game to another level,” Joe Mazzulla told the media ahead of the Celtics' 132-122 win over the Washington Wizards on Sunday.
If Pritchard can carry his recent production level into the postseason, he will be a significant threat off the Celtics bench. He has NBA Finals experience, having been part of the rotation that lost to the Golden State Warriors in 2022. His ability to space the floor, attack off the dribble and force defensive collapses will be key to hurting robust half-court defenses.
The bigger question will be whether Pritchard can avoid being a target on the defensive end. His 6-foot-1 frame can be enticing for other teams to try and hunt when looking for mismatches. Nevertheless, he's been able to hold his own all season and has proved to be a capable defender.
Boston will face a tough run in its pursuit of a championship. Having genuine scorers coming off the bench will make things a little easier, especially when one of those scorers can create for himself and others.
Pritchard could become one of the best bench guards in the NBA in the coming months. If he can do that, the Celtics could be arranging a championship parade.
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