When the Boston Celtics were missing four rotation players against the Detroit Pistons on Monday, Payton Pritchard was inserted in the starting lineup and made the most of his opportunity.
In only his second start of the 2023 season, Pritchard had 23 points and seven assists, including five three-pointers while shooting 57.1 percent from the field to become the Boston Celtics’ second-leading scorer in the 119-94 victory, their sixth win in a row.
While many have questioned the Boston Celtics’ bench depth this season, Payton Pritchard’s steady presence has made sure that they never skip a beat even if they miss a couple of starters due to injuries.
“I mean, it’s basketball at the end of the day,” said Pritchard via Brian Robb of MassLive. “But I think it’s a good opportunity for a lot of us that you don’t see it, the day in, day out, the work we put in one through 15, especially the bench guys. For them to get an opportunity to come out and show what they’re capable of doing, it’s good cause I think we’re a very deep team and I think people are starting to realize that.”
“I think it’s just a chip on our shoulder that we always carry. It’s just the media and all that. They question because we haven’t really played. So I’m just glad that we’re able to show ‘em,” he added.
Payton Pritchard’s March so far
Payton Pritchard picked up his production in March since he is averaging 10.2 points, 4.0 assists, and 3.5 rebounds in the last 10 games. Before his 23-point outing against the Phoenix Suns, Pritchard’s best performance came against the Golden State Warriors, putting up 19 points, six rebounds, six assists, and two steals in the 140-88 blowout victory.
Because they have the best record in the NBA, the Boston Celtics can afford to rest their starters to manage their load ahead of the playoffs. Against the Detroit Pistons, Jrue Holiday, Sam Hauser, Jayson Tatum, and Al Horford were all ruled out.
As of this writing, Jrue Holiday is questionable to play against the Milwaukee Bucks tomorrow due to a shoulder injury. If Holiday sits this one out, Payton Pritchard should draw another start.