Payton Pritchard had a standout performance, achieving a career-high of 38 points, as the top-seeded Boston Celtics secured a 132-122 victory over the WаsҺinɡton Wizards in their regular-season finale. With their starting lineup rested, including notable players like Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Kristaps Porzingis, Pritchard took the lead, supported by strong contributions from Svi Mykhailiuk and Sam Hauser, who scored 26 and 16 points respectively.

Displaying versatility on the court, Pritchard not only delivered impressive scoring but also demonstrated playmaking skills with 12 assists and nine rebounds. Remarkably, this isn’t his first outstanding performance; last season, he achieved a rare triple-double, joining the ranks of Celtics legends Larry Bird and John Havlicek. Despite narrowly missing out on another triple-double, Pritchard’s consistent efforts throughout the season have been noteworthy, playing all 82 games and showcasing his value to the team.

As the Celtics conclude their regular season with a remarkable 64-18 record, they enter the postseason with high expectations. Coach Joe Mazzulla emphasizes the importance of approaching the playoffs without preconceived expectations, highlighting the challenging journey that lies ahead. Meanwhile, the Wizards, despite their loss, reflect on a season marked by resilience and growth under interim coach Brian Keefe, laying the groundwork for future success. Amidst the game’s action, the Celtics also took a moment to honor retiring TV announcer Mike Gorman, celebrating his illustrious 43-year career with heartfelt tributes from former players and NBA colleagues.