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2 Boston Celtics players that could see increased roles in NBA Finals

By Mark Nilon

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - DECEMBER 22: Robert Williams III #44 of the Boston Celtics is introduced before the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers at TD Garden on December 22, 2021 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Omar Rawlings/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - DECEMBER 22: Robert Williams III #44 of the Boston Celtics is introduced before the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers at TD Garden on December 22, 2021 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Omar Rawlings/Getty Images) /
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Boston Celtics (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Boston Celtics (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

Boston Celtics player No. 1) Payton Pritchard

During the Eastern Conference Finals and, frankly, the postseason as a whole, Payton Pritchard‘s role fluctuated quite often due to the copious injuries and absences that the Boston Celtics endured within their backcourt throughout the series.

Though early on the second-year pro was logging significant playtime, once guys like Marcus Smart and Derrick White both made their way back to the hardwood, we saw his minutes reduced significantly.

However, in this matchup against the Warriors, the C’s may want to consider upping his minutes and role once again, even with the two guards healthy and present, for the Dubs’ style of play causes their opponents to frequently gasp for air (rank second in total possessions and fifth in pace of play this postseason) and has them try to combat them with all the offensive firepower they have.

Pritchard could be a useful commodity to help on both of these fronts.

During their playoff run, the 24-year-old has found himself playing like a much older and more seasoned individual at times, serving as one of their most effective scorers and much-needed game-changers to help spark some serious comeback efforts.

So far this postseason, when receiving 15 or more minutes of action, the point guard has found himself posting a sound stat-line of 12 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.7 assists on 52 percent shooting from the floor and 43 percent shooting from deep.

Even in this series, the last time he received such run he played a major role in Boston’s blowout victory over Miami (Game 4) and finished the outing with 14 points, three dimes, one steal, and one block on 62.5 percent shooting from the field and 50 percent shooting from downtown.

In order to better their chances of beating this deep Warriors team, the Celtics should look to utilize their own depth in the process, and, more specifically, they should strongly consider giving Payton Pritchard more of a role moving forward.

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