Celtics Triumph Over Nuggets in Preseason Opener with Pritchard Shining
The Boston Celtics kicked off their 2024 preseason with a hard-fought 107-103 victory over the Denver Nuggets on October 4th. Although preseason games are more about preparation than the final score, there were notable performances and takeaways for both teams. Payton Pritchard stole the show for the Celtics, leading the charge with an impressive 21 points in just 24 minutes on the floor. Pritchard’s energy was evident from the moment he checked in, sinking six 3-pointers and dishing out six assists before resting in the final quarter. His standout performance hints at another leap forward for the guard, following a strong 2023 preseason that preceded his best season to date. With Pritchard orchestrating the offense, Boston’s rhythm looked its best.
The Nuggets, despite the loss, showed some early-season promise, though the effects of their 12-hour flight to Abu Dhabi were clear. Sloppy play marred the first half for both teams. Celtics stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown committed multiple turnovers, and even a few bizarre plays like Luke Kornet’s awkward 10-foot tip-in attempt added to the disjointed feel. However, it’s all part of shaking off the preseason rust.
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Derrick White also stood out defensively for the Celtics, contributing with several key defensive rotations and even forcing turnovers, playing like a man chasing a roster spot, rather than being one of Boston’s most established players. His hustle epitomized the grit that head coach Joe Mazzulla seeks from his squad.
On the other hand, the Celtics’ end-of-rotation shooters, such as Jaden Springer and Jordan Walsh, struggled to find consistency, raising some questions about depth scoring. Walsh hit two of his attempts from beyond the arc, but the unit combined to shoot only 2 for 7 from deep, highlighting an area of concern as Boston prepares for the regular season.
Denver had their own bright spots, with veterans like Aaron Gordon showing solid form, but couldn’t quite match the Celtics’ intensity during critical moments. As both teams look ahead to the upcoming season, this game served as an important gauge of where they stand after a long offseason.
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