The Boston Celtics are filled with optimism and enthusiasm for the upcoming season, thanks to their acquisitions of Kristaps Porzingis, a formidable big man, and Jrue Holiday, a seasoned guard with strong two-way abilities.
Nonetheless, a major concern looms over the Celtics’ roster, and it’s the lack of depth on their bench. To address this issue, guard Payton Pritchard is expected to step up and make a difference. Head coach Joe Mazzulla has reported that Pritchard has been performing well, particularly in improving his execution of offensive plays and his effectiveness in pick-and-rolls.
Pritchard, entering his fourth NBA season, has demonstrated his proficiency as a three-point shooter. However, the question remains whether he can effectively run Boston’s offense as a bench player.
The team’s other primary reserve guard is Derrick White, who started 70 games in the previous season, averaging 12.4 points and 3.9 assists per game while shooting 38.1 percent from beyond the arc.
"Most people in his position don't make it to the next contract… just says a lot about who he is."
Joe Mazzulla talks Payton Pritchard's performance so far in preseason, and his contract extension
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— Celtics on NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSCeltics) October 13, 2023
With the addition of Porzingis and Holiday, some experts predict that the Celtics have a strong chance to emerge as Eastern Conference champions and even secure the world championship this season. Their roster is equipped to compete with almost any team in the league, given Holiday’s exceptional defensive skills as a point guard and Porzingis’s ability to protect the rim.
However, the path to success won’t be easy, as they face tough competition from teams like the Milwaukee Bucks, Denver Nuggets, Phoenix Suns, and their long-standing rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers, in their quest for their 18th championship banner.