He might not be Victor Wembanyama on the basketball court when he is defending opposing players, but backup Boston Celtics combo guard Payton Pritchard takes issue with those among us who suggest that the the University of Oregon alum is not a good defender.

ORLANDO — The impact of Payton Pritchard on this year’s Celtics team has been perhaps the biggest surprise. The fourth-year guard is a frontrunner for the Sixth Man of the Year award, and has become a fan favorite because of his ability to hit threes in bunches.

The Massachusetts club is the most frequent at these attempts, leading the NBA with a historically prolific 51.3 attempts per contest. However, it’s not only about shooting, it is also about precision, as the Celtics 18.8 made threes per game are the most converted this year, at 36.7%.

Payton Pritchard has been turning heads this season for the Celtics, and an ex-NBA player gave the guard his flowers.

The Boston Celtics won the 2023-2024 NBA championship by relying on the 3-point shot. The Celtics led the NBA in 3-point attempts and 3-points shots made while placing second in 3-point shooting percentage.

Boston Celtics reserve point guard Payton Pritchard has been enjoying a banner year in 2024-25. He's already a leading candidate for Sixth Man of the Year honor

Derrick White gave credit to Payton Pritchard, who has become the Sixth Man of the Year favorite. Read more on Boston.com.

Celtics point guard Payton Pritchard could see teams not shooting as many 3-pointers, but that doesn't include his squad.

Payton Pritchard is making a push for some NBA awards as his strong start to the season has continued a third into the season.

But head coach Joe Mazzulla has repeatedly praised Pritchard for how much he’s improved as an on-ball defender. The 26-year-old is on pace to record nearly 80 steals this season, which would double his current career high of 39.

Bobby Manning and Noa Dalzell react to the Celtics losing to the Philadelphia 76ers, 118-114, in a disappointing Christmas Day effort.