On Sunday, March 23, Payton Pritchard started his first game of the season as the Boston Celtics defeated the Portland Trail Blazers.
Sadly for Pritchard, his debut in the starting lineup did not go as he had hoped. The talented guard quickly picked up three fouls early in the first quarter, which led to him being in foul trouble for the rest of the game. Because of this, Pritchard struggled to find his rhythm while trying to impress fans in his hometown.
After the game, Pritchard shared with the media that he feels he is better suited to come off the bench for this Celtics team. “It’s definitely very emotional just growing up and watching these games as a kid,” Pritchard said. “But ultimately, my first start this year didn’t go how I wanted. I got three fouls in like three minutes. Maybe I’ll just stick to coming off the bench; that’s much more fitting for me right now.”
Pritchard is currently favored to win the 2025 NBA Sixth Man of the Year award. He recently broke the NBA record for the most three-point shots made off the bench in a season and continues to excel in this area. Additionally, he has been a real spark for the Celtics’ offense throughout the year. Keeping Pritchard in his bench role seems to be the best choice for both him and Boston’s chances of success.
Celtics’ Pritchard Talks About Playing in Portland
Pritchard grew up in Portland. Because of this, he has a history of playing well against the Trail Blazers when he’s on the road. After the game, the fifth-year guard shared his thoughts on playing in front of his hometown crowd, which includes family and friends.
“I’ve had a lot of success in this state,” Pritchard stated. “I feel like I made a name for myself in high school with four state championships, and I’ve done a lot in Oregon and won many games there. I’ve really tried to give back to Oregon, and it definitely feels like home. I’m thankful for all the support I receive.”
According to StatHead.com, Pritchard averages 16.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.8 assists when playing against the Trail Blazers throughout his career. In those matchups, he maintains a shooting percentage of 50% from beyond the arc and 62.5% from inside the three-point line.
Celtics Might Trade a Key Player
While Pritchard’s future with the Celtics seems secure, Sam Hauser’s situation is much less clear. ESPN’s Bobby Marks suggests that Hauser could be a trade target for the Celtics this summer. Marks explains that Hauser’s current contract will cost the team $90 million next season.
“They are going to be a luxury tax team next year… Even if you are spending around $500 million on salaries, you have 11 players signed for next season… This is where the new CBA comes into effect,” Marks noted. “The commissioner has said, ‘You can keep some players, but not all of them.’ The players in question are Payton Pritchard and Sam Hauser. Here’s a stat: keeping Sam Hauser means his first year of that extension will cost $90 million when you factor in his $10 million salary and the $80 million in luxury tax penalties. If they want to cut some costs, that could mean trading Sam Hauser.”
Hauser scored eight three-pointers against the Trail Blazers on Sunday. He is among the top shooters in the NBA, both when catching and shooting or moving.
Unfortunately for Boston, they may face some difficult choices this summer. If they have to part ways with Hauser, another team will gain an excellent shooter on a favorable contract.
