Celtics' Payton Pritchard Leads NBA in Impressive Stat

The Celtics' No. 3 scoring option is having a noteworthy season.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 6:55pm

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Payton Pritchard, the 6-foot-1 Boston Celtics guard, has been among the most underrated No. 3 scoring options in the league. With Jayson Tatum sidelined with an Achilles injury, Pritchard has received a more significant offensive role and is leading the NBA in an impressive stat - the most games this season with 25+ points and zero free throws attempted.

Why it matters

This stat is admirable because it's common for players to erupt for 25+ points while attempting multiple free throws. When an individual doesn't get any whistles in a 25-point outing, it means they had no choice but to fight through contact and score at a high clip. Pritchard's ability to do this has helped the Celtics navigate life without Tatum.

The details

Pritchard is averaging 17.0 points, 5.3 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game this year, shooting 45.9% from the field and 35.3% from downtown. The Celtics will need Pritchard to remain consistent if they want to return to the NBA Finals.

  • The 2024 NBA champion Boston Celtics are currently navigating life without star Jayson Tatum, who is sidelined with an Achilles injury.

The players

Payton Pritchard

A 6-foot-1 guard for the Boston Celtics who has emerged as one of the team's top scoring options in the absence of Jayson Tatum.

Jayson Tatum

The star forward for the Boston Celtics who is currently sidelined with an Achilles injury.

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What they’re saying

“Payton Pritchard has the most games in the NBA this season with 25+ points & zero free throws attempted.”

— Real App, Statistics-based Twitter account (Twitter)

What’s next

The Celtics will need Pritchard to continue his impressive play if they want to return to the NBA Finals and defend their 2024 championship.

The takeaway

Pritchard's ability to score 25+ points without attempting any free throws is a testament to his skill and determination, and highlights his importance to the Celtics as they navigate Tatum's absence. This stat underscores Pritchard's growth as a player and his value as a key contributor for the defending champions.