Payton Pritchard Drops Career-High, No One Else Brings the Energy in Loss
Brian Babineau | NBAE via Getty Images
In Tuesday’s 115-119 road loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Celtics were down early. They fought throughout the game to chip away at the deficit but ultimately weren’t able to hold on once they secured a lead. Rookie Payton Pritchard had a career night as he made major contributions off the bench.
“Fast PP” got it started early in the first quarter with a couple of three-pointers and a layup. He carried that confidence throughout the rest of the game. His passing, the ability to drain the three-ball, and his craftiness around the basket were all on full display as the C’s would make a late-game surge.
Pritchard ended up finishing with a career-high 28 points and added three rebounds and four assists. Starting to find his own niche offensively, PP could become an asset for the postseason. Nearing the close of his rookie season, Pritchard has started to play with poise. Working well in the pick n rolls sets with the bigs and being able to create shots for himself as well as others.
Looking to bounce back from a 3 game losing skid, the C’s will need the bench and others to continue to step up. The club will host the Charlotte Hornets tonight at 7:30 on NBC Sports Boston.
