Grading every Celtics player in preseason blowout win over Nuggets

Payton Pritchard (16:18)

The first minute of Payton Pritchard’s game was an absolute disaster. He picked up three fouls in less than 60 seconds, but after that, it was smooth sailing.

Pritchard finished the contest with 14 points, two rebounds, and five assists while shooting 5-of-7 from the floor and 2-of-3 from beyond the three-point arc.

A red-hot first preseason game was followed up by a solid second appearance, and Pritchard looks primed to be one of the best bench players in the league next season.

His confidence remains unmatched, and the Celtics should look to capitalize on that heading into next year. Grade: A-

Sam Hauser (15:34)

After shooting just 2-of-8 from distance in the first preseason game, Sam Hauser was absolutely on fire in this one. He was one of the best players on the floor.

Hauser finished the contest with 15 points and eight rebounds, shooting 6-of-7 from the floor and 3-of-3 from deep, going perfect from behind the three-point line.

But while his three-point shooting was impressive, as always, his ability to put the ball on the floor and create shots for himself is what made him stand out in this one.

He could prove Boston’s offense with a new wrinkle if he can do that consistently. Grade: A+