Chowder and Champions
Fansided

Boston Celtics continue to toy with fans’ emotions

By Jason Haskins

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - APRIL 30: Tristan Thompson #13 of the Boston Celtics celebrates with Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics after the Celtics defeated the San Antonio Spurs at TD Garden on April 30, 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 Maddie Malhotra/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - APRIL 30: Tristan Thompson #13 of the Boston Celtics celebrates with Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics after the Celtics defeated the San Antonio Spurs at TD Garden on April 30, 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 Maddie Malhotra/Getty Images) /
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Boston Celtics
Boston Celtics Aaron Nesmith  (Photo by Maddie Malhotra/Getty Images) /

Boston Celtics: Weekly player spotlight

Patience in awaiting the arrival of Aaron Nesmith and consistent playing time has finally paid off. So, too, has the productivity from the rookie.

An fabulous effect that’s been on display in Boston’s last two games, both victories.

Nesmith was a key component down the stretch against San Antonio, on both ends of the court. A highlight was a key steal towards the end of overtime that helped set up Boston for victory.

He finished with 16 points and 6 rebounds.

This followed up an outstanding performance in the victory over the Hornets. Nesmith had 15 points, 3 steals, and 3 blocked shots. His nine rebounds helped Boston hold a 21-rebound advantage in that game.

The week also saw Jaylen Brown play in all four games. He struggled through a 5-29 performance against the Spurs, but still managed 17 points. This was a low for Brown last week as he averaged 28.5 points. Brown had a double-double in the loss to Oklahoma City (39 points, 11 rebounds) plus four steals.

Marcus Smart continued to struggle with his field goal percentage and shot selection, though he was better in the losses (12-28) than in the two wins (6-23). Smart did have 12 assists against the Spurs.

After totaling measly stats of 7 points and 8 rebounds in the week’s first two games, Tristan Thompson found another level. Thompson had a total of 20 points and 28 rebounds, plus four blocked shots, in the two victories.

Thompson did have some help, with Robert Williams III returning from injury. The Celtics are nearly at full-strength now. Kemba Walker, however, missed the last three games with an oblique strain and is unlikely to play on Sunday.

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