Payton Pritchard’s minutes with Jayson Tatum show why he shouldn’t be a starter

Hardwood Houdini writer Maxwell Ogden argues that Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard should remain in his sixth man role rather than move into the starting lineup. Ogden notes that while Pritchard's presence benefits star forward Jayson Tatum, Pritchard's individual efficiency significantly drops when playing alongside Tatum compared to when he runs the offense without him.

According to databallr tracking cited in the piece, Pritchard shoots 48.0 percent from three-point range without Tatum compared to 26.5 percent alongside him. Ogden writes that high usage from Tatum and Paul George leaves Pritchard fewer opportunities to create with the ball, concluding that leading the reserves maximizes both Pritchard's rhythm and the team's overall success.