Boston Celtics: Player grades from OT thriller in Charlotte

Boston Celtics Grades: Jabari Parker (A-)

Jabari Parker got surprising minutes today for the Boston Celtics, as he acted as a big off the bench in the absence of Al Horford. He carried the offense back into the game in the first quarter, scoring 11 points on four shots to tie the game at 33.

Parker will always be a bucket getter in the NBA, able to take anyone off the dribble and head to the hoop. He had his long-distance shot working this game, hitting three-of-four attempts from beyond the arc.

Jabari won’t get a lot of playing time when everyone is healthy due to his defensive struggles, which were apparent this game, but it doesn’t matter when he can carry the offense.

With Schroder moving to the starting lineup, the bench needed a boost in offensive production, which was provided by the former Duke star.

Boston Celtics Grades: Grant Williams (B+)

The cycle of Boston Celtics fans hating on Grant Williams after every game might be dead.

He has shown tons of improvement off of his relatively disastrous sophomore season, beginning with his steady shot from long distance.

As a rookie, he provided intrigue as a switchable defender who can guard multiple positions. He is living up to those expectations, getting multiple deflections and making defensive plays, along with only committing two fouls in 25 minutes.

He was the first option off the bench for coach Udoka, and with good reason — his recent play has earned his coach’s trust.

Hitting three of his six shots for nine points in this one, he actually looks like a capable offensive player. Many times last season, he would lose confidence in his 3-point shot, so the Boston Celtics would basically be playing four-on-five offense.

Not this season, as Grant has even shown his ability to cut to the center of the defense, hitting the free throw line floater.

Grant has turned back the clock to his rookie year 3-and-D ways, and it’s helping the Boston Celtics pick up wins early in the season.

The Cs go back home next, hosting the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night.