What happened: Payton Pritchard scored a Pritchard delivered 18 points in the first half and knocked down three 3-pointers along with two steals. The scoring outburst answered an early-game challenge from head coach Joe Mazzulla to elevate offensive aggression.

Why it matters: The performance validated earlier projections from Kendrick Perkins, who tabbed Pritchard as the Celtics' primary complementary scorer entering the fall. Pritchard's bench perimeter production provides reliable offensive shot creation as Boston navigates early-season tournament rotations.

What to watch: Boston continues its NBA Cup group-stage slate next week as the coaching staff looks to sustain perimeter production across tournament play.