Payton Pritchard is set up to have a career year

Last season, Payton Pritchard began the year as the Celtics starting point guard. In February, he was moved to the bench after Anfernee Simons was traded to give Boston’s second unit more punch in the scoring department. He should be…

Published: Saturday, 19 September 2026 at 9:37 AM
Payton Pritchard is set up to have a career year
Key Things to Know
  • Payton Pritchard is positioned to become the Boston Celtics' second offensive option following Jaylen Brown's departure.
  • The Celtics' offensive rating rises to 125 when Pritchard and Jayson Tatum share the court.
  • Pritchard shot 42% on catch-and-shoot three-pointers and averaged a career-high 5.2 assists per game last season.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard is positioned to take on a larger offensive role for the team following the departure of Jaylen Brown. Writer Jack Anderson argues that Pritchard should return to the starting lineup to serve as the primary secondary scoring option alongside star forward Jayson Tatum. Pritchard began last season as the starting point guard before moving to a bench role in February.

Statistical data shows that the Celtics' offensive rating increases to 125 when Tatum and Pritchard share the court. Pritchard shot 42% on catch-and-shoot three-pointers last season and averaged a career-high 5.2 assists per game. Head coach Joe Mazzulla is urged to shift some of the offensive workload from Derrick White to Pritchard to prevent fatigue.

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