Celtics' Pritchard Shines in Absence of Stars

Backup guard steps up with Jaylen Brown and Neemias Queta out for Monday's game against the Bucks

Mar. 2, 2026 at 4:55pm

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With Celtics stars Jaylen Brown and Neemias Queta sidelined, backup guard Payton Pritchard is poised to have a big game against the Bucks on Monday. In six games this season without Brown, Pritchard has averaged 23.3 points, 7.5 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game, clearing 32.5 PRA in all but one of those contests. Pritchard's usage and assist rates also spike with the Celtics' top players out, making him an attractive prop bet option.

Why it matters

Pritchard's increased production in the absence of Brown and Queta highlights his value as a key role player for the Celtics. His ability to step up when the team is shorthanded could be crucial as Boston navigates the NBA season.

The details

In six games without Brown this season, Pritchard has averaged 23.3 points, 7.5 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game. The reigning Sixth Man of the Year has cleared 32.5 PRA in all but one of these games. Without Brown and Queta, Pritchard's usage rate skyrockets 8.8 percentage points to 30.4%, and his assist rate swells 7.9 percentage points to 31.7%.

  • The Celtics are visiting the Bucks on Monday, March 2, 2026.

The players

Payton Pritchard

A backup guard for the Boston Celtics who has consistently elevated his performance in shorthanded situations.

Jaylen Brown

A Celtics star player who will be sidelined on Monday due to illness.

Neemias Queta

A Celtics big man who will also be out on Monday due to rest.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.