Payton Pritchard Shines As Celtics Obliterate Grizzlies
Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard reminded everyone on Wednesday night against the Memphis Grizzlies why he’s one of the most valuable contracts in the NBA. The reigning Sixth Man of the Year pulled off an efficient masterclass against Memphis, scoring 24 points on 5-of-10 from three to go along with nine assists, six rebounds, and zero turnovers. Pritchard was an absurd +42 on the night as the Celts blew out the Grizz by 36 points.
For a player making $7.2 million, Pritchard provides exceptional value. Beyond his short stature, which can present problems defensively at times, there are no discernible holes in Pritchard’s game, especially when he’s cooking like he was against Memphis.
Pritchard is truly one of the best shooters in the NBA, and he’s become a more confident creator off the dribble with each passing season. At this point, it’s pretty clear that Pritchard isn’t afraid of any defender the NBA could possibly throw at him. He’s 27 years old and in his athletic prime, and the Celtics are lucky to have PP on the payroll at a bargain price for two more seasons beyond 2025-26.
The Celtics were playing the second leg of a back-to-back on Wednesday at TD Garden, but they exuded maximum energy in spite of the fact, and Pritchard spearheaded that agenda. He doesn’t get enough credit for setting the tone for Boston on a nightly basis with his relentless approach to the game. Pritchard is a massive part of the Celts’ culture, and he’s actually a perfect fit with the psychotic mentality that Joe Mazzulla brings to the table.
You love to see Pritchard getting to spread his wings a bit more this season. It’s been one of the feel-good benefits of a watered down roster, but the thing is, Pritchard has always been an important element of this team, and he should continue to be a go-to guy even when Tatum returns and the roster improves over the next couple of years.
When you mention the Celtics’ “core”, make sure to include Pritchard. He belongs in that conversation with Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Derrick White.