Celtics fans split on Pritchard starting
Celtics fans debate if Payton Pritchard should start or stay as sixth man next season, with Tatum, White, and George in the lineup.
Boston Celtics fans are debating whether Payton Pritchard should be a starter or a super sixth man for the upcoming NBA season. The discussion, captured in an SB Nation Reacts survey, highlights uncertainty around the fifth starting spot alongside confirmed starters Jayson Tatum, Derrick White, and Paul George.
One fan, identified as SpiritofEspiritu, voted a "shaky 'no'" on Pritchard starting. The fan argued Pritchard is elite against opposing bench guards and helps maintain or recalibrate the game's energy when entering from the bench. The fan also suggested Pritchard could end all four quarters in rhythm, with his play at times being "magical."
The Fan's Case for the Bench
SpiritofEspiritu believes Pritchard recognizes his value in a reserve role, citing the player's repeated statements that he is okay with any role as long as he plays. Another factor is the potential load management for stars Paul George and Jayson Tatum, as well as center Mitchell Robinson, who are unlikely to play back-to-back games. The fan speculated that Tatum and George might offset their back-to-back schedules or play together in one game and sit together in the other.
This scenario could lead to smaller lineups when Robinson sits. As a result, the fan can see Pritchard getting starts sprinkled in throughout the season to manage player workloads.
Championship Odds and Team Context
Regardless of his role, fans agree Pritchard will be a significant part of Boston's success next year. The team's championship odds, according to FanDuel, place them fifth highest to win a title. The Celtics' odds trail those of four other teams.
| Team | Championship Odds |
|---|---|
| Oklahoma City Thunder | +230 |
| San Antonio Spurs | +280 |
| New York Knicks | +950 |
| Philadelphia 76ers | +1000 |
| Boston Celtics | +1500 |
Head coach Joe Mazzulla has options at center, where Neemias Queta will compete with newly signed Mitchell Robinson for playing time. Queta signed a four-year extension after being a revelation last season. The fifth starter remains the bigger mystery heading into training camp, with Sam Hauser holding the role last year and Baylor Scheierman getting some run at point forward before Tatum's return.
Payton Pritchard moved to the bench after Anfernee Simons was traded to Chicago for Nikola Vucevic.
Source: Yahoo Sports