Payton Pritchard scored a career-best 31 points, leading the Boston Celtics (63-18) to a commanding 131-98 victory over the Charlotte Hornets (20-61) on Friday night.
Pritchard’s performance included 11 assists, marking his second double-double of the season and helping the Celtics avoid a three-game losing streak.
Luke Kornet contributed with 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Sam Hauser and Neemias Queta also chipped in 16 points each.
With starters resting, including Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Jrue Holiday, Derrick White, Kristaps Porzingis, and Al Horford, Boston prioritized player health ahead of the postseason.
The Celtics are set to conclude their regular season against the Washington Wizards, likely affording Pritchard another opportunity to shine in the starting lineup.
Tre Mann led the Hornets’ efforts with 19 points and eight assists, while Nick Smith Jr. contributed 15 points in a losing effort.
