Boston Celtics: 3 players most impacted by Kemba Walker blockbuster

Boston Celtics impressive rookie Payton Prichard given more of an opportunity

It could very well turn out that Danny Ainge’s last draft as president of basketball operations could be his best as far as finding players late in the draft who turn out to be a big part of the team’s future.

Not saying Payton Prichard is ready to take over the starting role in Year 2 of his NBA career, but the Boston Celtics point guard certainly produced off the bench and also had a couple starts during his rookie season.

In the regular season, Pritchard averaged 7.7 points in 19.2 minutes played per game.  His maturity and ability to make contributions but defensively and offensively essentially sent veteran point guard Jeff Teague packing.

With a career-high 28 points in a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Pritchard had many highlight moments during his rookie season, which benefited from the early absence of Kemba Walker.

Ironically, the trade of Walker will open up more minutes for Payton Prichard and an opportunity for him to make a bigger leap.  While the No. 26 pick in the 2020 NBA Draft showed he was advanced as a rookie, he will have a greater opportunity to prove himself next season as his role should increase.

With a year of experience under his belt, sky is the limit on how far Payton Prichard can take his game for the Celtics not only next season, but beyond.

Friday’s blockbuster deal involving Kemba Walker may have set the stage for Prichard’s continuing rise.