Payton Pritchard has recently faced challenges on the court, yet he’s taking it in stride. The reigning NBA Sixth Man of the Year, who is expected to be a key scorer for the Boston Celtics in the 2025-26 season, has struggled with his 3-point shooting, currently at a career-low 21.3%. This slump has impacted the Celtics’ overall offensive flow, contributing to back-to-back losses early in the season against the Rockets and Jazz.
Acknowledging his shooting difficulties, Pritchard remains focused on finding alternative ways to contribute. “Getting to the paint can be easier looks and can be my bread and butter,” he noted after the Celtics’ 136-107 victory over the Washington Wizards. His recent approach has involved relying on his agility and ball-handling skills to create opportunities inside the arc.
Pritchard has consistently developed his game off the court, incorporating intensive one-on-one drills into his training regimen. His dedication is evident as he often collaborates with professionals to simulate real-game scenarios, which helps him refine his skills without leaning on the three-point shot.
After the Celtics’ loss to the Miami Heat in the 2023 Eastern Conference Finals, Pritchard reached out to European professional Brooks DeBisschop for workouts. This collaboration not only challenged Pritchard defensively but also helped him expand his offensive repertoire. Over the following two seasons, he averaged a personal best of 9.6 points and 14.3 points during Boston’s playoff runs, earning him greater respect and trust within the organization.
In Wednesday’s game, Pritchard played a pivotal role, tallying 18 points on 7-of-12 shooting, alongside two rebounds and five assists, while achieving a season-high +36 in just 24 minutes. His speed and strategic play allowed him to penetrate effectively, creating scoring chances for teammates like Jordan Walsh and Sam Hauser.
Pritchard’s shift towards aggressive play inside the arc has increased his two-point attempts to an impressive 6.1 per game, with a conversion rate of 67.3%. His ability to navigate through defenses not only demonstrates his growth but underscores the hard work he has dedicated to his craft.
Despite his performance being short of his personal standards, Pritchard remains positive. He acknowledged a couple of turnovers but refuses to let them overshadow his love for the game. “I love basketball too much to get negative,” he said, emphasizing his focus on contributing positively moving forward.
This determination and adaptability not only bode well for Pritchard but also for the Celtics as they work to find their rhythm in the early stages of the season. As he continues to evolve his gameplay, both he and the team are poised for growth and success.