Payton Pritchard has his eating routine under control.
Morning meal includes oatmeal, bacon, and a protein shake. Chicken noodles — cooked in olive oil — for his pregame meal.
And, no alcohol throughout the NBA season: “That’s been simple.”
Everything was a result of a deliberate choice by the backup guard to maximize his influence before the NBA season, as the Celtics got ready for their championship defense.
“For me, it’s as if – I believe I’m going to have a great chance this year to assist the team in developing somewhat,” Pritchard shared with CelticsBlog last week. “Therefore, what steps can I take to optimize all aspects?”
He was unaware that he would become the leading contender for the Sixth Man of the Year award. In reality, attaining the award that he seems destined to win wasn’t even a target. Moreover, he was unaware that he would set the NBA record for the most three-pointers made off the bench in a season — a mark he established on Saturday night versus the Brooklyn Nets, with 14 games remaining this year.
Every one of his ambitions was motivated by himself — abilities he understood would enhance the Celtics’ odds of success.
Is it possible for me to enhance my shooting from a dribble? Is it possible for me to enhance my playmaking? “Can I have additional steals?” Pritchard stated. “Things of that nature, I can personally influence.”
The outcomes have been unmistakable.
The 5’11 guard is averaging 14.1 points per game this season, an increase from 9.6 the previous year. He holds the second-highest TS% on the Celtics and the second-best effective field goal percentage, following only Luke Kornet, who makes 97% of his attempts from less.
All of his aspirations were driven by his own interests — skills he recognized would improve the Celtics’ chances of victory.
Can I improve my shooting while dribbling? Can I improve my playmaking skills? “May I get more steals?” Pritchard remarked. “I can personally sway matters of that kind.”
The results have been clear.
The 5’11 guard is posting an average of 14.1 points per game this season, rising from 9.6 last year. He possesses the second-best TS% on the Celtics and the second-highest effective field goal percentage, surpassed only by Luke Kornet, who converts 97% of his attempts from behind the arc.