The Boston Celtics have once again been one of the best teams in the NBA during the 2024-25 season. After winning the NBA Finals last year, the Celtics seem to have a good shot at defending their title.
However, there are a lot of talented teams who will push Boston to the limit. Just in the Eastern Conference, the Cleveland Cavaliers, New York Knicks, and Indiana Pacers are major threats.
While the Celtics will be led by both Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, the supporting cast around them will need to step up.
Of course, Boston will receive quality play from names like Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, Kristaps Porzingis, and Al Horford, but there is one key X-Factor the Celtics will need to step up that could make or break their NBA playoff run.
That player is none other than backup guard Payton Pritchard.
Pritchard brings infectious energy night in and night out. He is the heart and soul of Boston’s second unit.
In order to last through a full series, the Celtics are going to need consistent production off of the bench. That will be where they lean heavily on Pritchard.
Throughout the course of the regular season, Pritchard has played in 76 games. He has only received one start.
He has averaged 14.0 points per game to go along with 3.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 0.9 steals. Also, he has shot 46.6% from the floor and has connected on 41.1% of his 3-point attempts.
Even though he does not receive a ton of credit for Boston’s overall success, Pritchard will be a major key come playoff time. His defensive ability, perimeter shooting, and leadership for the second unit will be crucial for the Celtics to win a second straight championship.
Be the first to comment