Payton Pritchard delivered an outstanding performance, scoring a career-best 31 points as the Boston Celtics cruised to a 131-98 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Friday night. Pritchard also contributed 11 assists, marking his second double-double of the season and helping the Celtics avoid a three-game losing streak, a feat they hadn’t experienced since the 2010-11 season.

Luke Kornet posted 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Sam Hauser and Neemias Queta each added 16 points for Boston. The team dominated with a lead of up to 33 points and committed only six turnovers throughout the game.

Coach Joe Mazzulla praised Pritchard’s growth and adaptability this season, emphasizing his versatility and consistent impact on the game. With several key players resting, including Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and others, Pritchard once again showcased his value as a reliable contributor off the bench.

As the regular season concludes, the Celtics have secured the top seed in the Eastern Conference, affording them the luxury of resting key players ahead of the playoffs. This likely means another opportunity for Pritchard to start, as he aims to complete a full 82-game season for the first time in his career, a milestone he views as a significant achievement.

Meanwhile, Tre Mann led the Hornets with 19 points and eight assists, supported by Nick Smith Jr. with 15 points. With playoff hopes dashed since March, the Hornets utilized the game to provide opportunities for younger players and G League call-ups.

The Celtics capitalized on the absence of key players to give rookie Jordan Walsh playing time and call up G League standouts to fill in. Despite the absences, the Hornets remained competitive, albeit without players like Grant Williams and Nick Richards due to ιnjᴜry.