As the NBA regular season winds down, the Boston Celtics continue to play shorthanded but keep winning games. With their playoff position secure, the team can afford to rest key players while maintaining their winning ways. Despite missing three starters, the Celtics defeated the Portland Trail Blazers 129-116, securing their fifth consecutive victory. Although the Blazers entered the game on a four-game winning streak, Boston’s depth proved too much to handle.
A major advantage for the Celtics heading into the postseason is their bench depth. Coach Joe Mazzulla emphasizes consistency in the team’s approach to winning, and Boston’s reserves have delivered. Players like Payton Pritchard, Sam Hauser, and Luke Kornet have excelled in their expanded roles, contributing significantly in Sunday’s victory.
Pritchard, making his first start of the season, scored 16 points and added five assists. Hauser was exceptional, hitting 8-of-10 shots from three-point range to finish with 24 points. Kornet was also efficient, going 6-for-6 from the field for 13 points and five rebounds, with a plus-minus of +16. Their strong performances highlight the Celtics’ ability to rely on their bench players when needed.
Beyond the primary reserves, deeper bench players also contributed. Rookie Baylor Scheierman played 26 minutes, recording six points, five rebounds, and three assists. His improved performance reflects his growth over the season. Pritchard acknowledged their efforts, encouraging younger players to seize these opportunities and continue improving.
Other bench contributors included Torrey Craig, who logged 13 minutes, and two-way guard JD Davison, who played eight minutes. Craig, a recent addition from the buyout market, is still integrating with the team, while Davison is developing after being drafted in 2022. Although these players may not have significant playoff roles, their current contributions could prove valuable if called upon during critical moments.
Coach Mazzulla praised the collective effort, highlighting the performances of Hauser, Kornet, Craig, Scheierman, and Davison. The Celtics’ ability to maintain their high standards regardless of who is on the floor positions them well for the playoffs while keeping their winning momentum intact.
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