The Boston Celtics have been on a rollercoaster ride lately, starting games sluggishly but finding ways to claw back, thanks in large part to Payton Pritchard. The Celtics’ recent win over the Milwaukee Bucks, 113-107, was a testament to Pritchard’s impact off the bench. Despite the team falling behind 16-2 early on, Pritchard’s 17 first-half points were crucial in keeping the Celtics in the game. His ability to hit clutch shots from beyond the arc has been a game-changer, making him a standout reserve in the league.
Pritchard’s shooting stats are impressive, with 43 three-pointers off the bench this season, shooting 43% from deep. Having a player like Pritchard who can come off the bench and deliver is a luxury for the Celtics.
Celtics’ Defensive Struggles and Adjustments
The Celtics’ defense has been a mixed bag, starting games without the intensity they’re known for. In the first half against the Bucks, they recorded no steals or blocks, which is unusual for a team as good as the Celtics are defensively. However, the second half saw a turnaround with five steals and two blocks, showcasing the team’s ability to adjust and lock down opponents when it matters.
Derrick White and Jrue Holiday were instrumental in this defensive resurgence, contributing significantly to the team’s second-half success. Holiday’s late-game heroics, including key free throws and a crucial steal, helped seal the victory. The Celtics’ ability to execute in crunch time is promising, but they need to address their slow starts to avoid unnecessary pressure.
Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jaylen Brown’s On-Court Antics
The game also featured some shenanigans between Jaylen Brown and Giannis Antetokounmpo. After hitting Brown with an elbow, Giannis playfully faked a handshake with Brown, pulling the classic “too slow” move. While it was all in good fun, Brown’s serious demeanor this season suggests he’s focused on the bigger picture. His defensive efforts against Damian Lillard were commendable, holding the star to just 14 points and zero in the fourth quarter.
The Celtics’ ability to contain top players like Lillard is a testament to their defensive potential. However, they must maintain this intensity from the start to avoid playing catch-up. As they prepare for upcoming games, including the Emirates Cup match against the Atlanta Hawks, the focus will be on starting strong and maintaining momentum throughout.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Celtics’ strategies and performances, tune into the Locked On Celtics podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Celtics Podcast:
- Jayson Tatum’s second-half resurgence
- White and Holiday coming up big
- The worst no-call an official can make
