Boston Celtics point man Payton Pritchard has been attracting significant attention around the league, per Steve Bulpett of Heavy.com
As Bulpett pointed out, Pritchard has been shoved back by Boston on their rotation this season, with their guard lineup being crowded due to the presence of Marcus Smart, Derrick White, and first-year Celtic Malcolm Brogdon. This season
Despite settling at the back of their backcourt depth, Pritchard has always been ready to step up when the club is experiencing injuries. This new situation by the young guard appears enticing for teams to execute a trade, with him earning $2.24MM this season and $4.04MM next year wherein he is eligible for restricted free agency.
“You’ve got to wonder about him defensively at that size (listed at 6-1), but he plays hard, he can really push the ball and he’s got a nice stroke from 3,” a personnel man told Bulpett. “I like what I see, but it’s hard to say for sure if he could do more with a better opportunity. And first you have to ask if he’s better than what you have and if he’ll even get more of a look with your team. It’s hard to say, but I know I’m not the only team checking on him. It’s always natural in these situations.”
In this 2022-23 campaign, Pritchard is playing in career-low minutes with 10.5 averages per 21 games played. He is averaging 4.4 points to go with 1.3 boards and 1.2 assists.
As Boston may seem open to making modifications for a stronger chance to contend, moving Pritchard could be an ideal move for a justifiable return.
