Payton Pritchard just snagged a massive two-year, $44.2 million contract extension, jumping from around $8 million a year. But if you think that big payday changed his mind about what it means to be a “starter” on a championship team, you’d be dead wrong. For Pritchard, the label itself means way less than the minutes and the impact.
The Minutes, Not The Label, Are What Really Matters
Pritchard’s been through the wringer: overlooked, then underpaid, then he played a big part on a championship squad. He’s been both a starter and a sixth man, seeing all sides of the conversation. And after signing that huge deal, his philosophy is clear as day. “To me, a starter is the amount of minutes you play,” Pritchard said after Sunday’s practice. “Do you finish games? Are you playing 30-plus minutes? Then you are a starter. You know what I mean?” He’s totally right! The title on paper means nothing if you’re not out there making plays when it counts. He’s always focused on impact, saying, “How do you impact the game is what really matters to me.”
He lived that reality last season, starting every game through the first half before Joe Mazzulla adjusted the rotation in February and moved him to the bench. But guess what? Pritchard remained a crucial piece of the team in both roles. Boston didn’t suddenly need less from him because he wasn’t introduced with the starting five. He’s learned a lot from that journey through the ups and downs. “You go through so many ups and downs, you’ve just gotta keep going, keep getting better every day,” he reflected.
A New Look Celtics Backcourt, And Pritchard’s Unwavering Approach
Now, the Celtics are trying to figure out another version of that lineup puzzle, especially with some big changes. Jayson Tatum is back, but Jaylen Brown is gone. Paul George joins Derrick White and Pritchard in a backcourt with a ton of responsibility to sort out. Pritchard could be a starter, or he could come off the bench. The decision will likely depend on what Mazzulla thinks the group needs at different moments. And Pritchard sounds totally chill leaving that choice to the coach. “If that’s what Joe thinks benefits the team the most,” he said of potentially coming off the bench. He just wants opportunities to play and show what he can do, focusing on being the best player he can in those minutes. It’s not about the status, it’s about what he does once he steps on the floor.
So, as the Celtics figure out this new-look lineup, especially in that loaded backcourt, Pritchard’s mindset is going to be key. It’s not about the name next to the starting five, it’s about who’s on the floor when it matters and who’s making the biggest impact. That kind of selflessness? You can’t put a price tag on that, even at $44.2 million.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Celtics Blog.
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