According to MassLive’s Brian Robb, the recent trades of Marcus Smart and Malcolm Brogdon have opened the door for the Boston Celtics to sign Payton Pritchard to a team-friendly deal. If not for these trades, Pritchard would likely be a starter elsewhere this summer. Robb believes that Pritchard’s consistent play and efficient shooting would have made him a starting point guard candidate in free agency. However, the Celtics secured Pritchard with a preseason extension of four years for $28 million.
With increased playing time this season, Pritchard has been able to showcase his skills, especially as the postseason approaches. Coach Brad Stevens has shown trust in Pritchard by trading away Smart and Brogdon, and this decision has paid off in the second half of the 2023-24 season.
Pritchard’s ability to hit three-pointers at a high percentage and lead the second unit has been crucial for the Celtics under coach Joe Mazzulla. As the team looks to make a deep playoff run, the contributions of Pritchard, Sam Hauser, and Luke Kornet off the bench could be pivotal in the quest for Banner 18.
While Mazzulla may rely heavily on his top six players during the postseason, Pritchard, Hauser, and Kornet are expected to play important roles. Whether it’s Pritchard’s playmaking, Hauser’s shooting, or Kornet’s defensive presence, the trio will have a significant impact on the team’s championship aspirations. Regardless of the minutes they see, their contributions will be crucial in the Celtics’ pursuit of another title.
