3 Things we learned from the Boston Celtics’ first 2021-22 NBA preseason game
The Boston Celtics opened their preseason schedule against the Orlando Magic with a come-from-behind 98-97 win. As with games before the official start of the year, teams tend to try out different things and see how the game unfolds. While minutes, plays and roster movements are probably all in flux at this stage, there are also a couple of things worth noticing in the Celtics’ first game with Ime Udoka as head coach.
Udoka warned that the media should not take much out of the starting five that the Boston Celtics will be rolling out. Still, it was exciting to monitor who gets to ball first. Jaylen Brown and Jayson are guaranteed spots in the starting lineup. The other three slots comprised of Robert Williams III at center, Marcus Smart at point guard and offseason acquisition, Juancho Hernangomez holding the power forward position.
Celtics’ Ime Udoka on Boston’s starting lineup vs. Magic and home debut: ‘It’s probably the most excited I’ve ever been for a preseason game’ trib.al/XniAw5R
With the first game on the books, it’s time to glean what might potentially be a consistent point as the Boston Celtics start the 2021-22 NBA season in the next few weeks. Here are a few impressions after the Boston Celtics started the preseason with a win against the Orlando Magic
#3 Payton Pritchard and Aaron Nesmith continue to thrill the Boston Celtics organization and fans
Fresh off an impressive 2021 Summer League campaign, the duo is sustaining their momentum. One of the biggest storylines for the Boston Celtics coming into the new season is how the young blood progresses in their development. If the offseason, training camp and pre-season are a sign, bigger things could come from Pritchard and Nesmith.
Payton Pritchard looks comfortable running the offense. His shooting will allow him to slide to shooting guard if Dennis Schroder or Marcus Smart quarterbacks the team. Posting him up on defense is not as easy as it looks for opposing bigs. He is a savvy and tough defender who is going to fight every inch.
Aaron Nesmith with the hustle and then the smooth finish ☘️🏀 https://t.co/fyVa1RJgWc
Aaron Nesmith first gained minutes on the floor for the Boston Celtics last season because of his hustle and energy. Once his shooting rounded out to form, it was clear that the potential of the young forward from Vanderbilt could be really high.
More than his 2-3 shooting from beyond the arc, Nesmith’s hustle and energy stood out. A long season could really highlight Nesmith’s development, which would delight the Celtic nation to no end.
Also check out: Complete NBA Preseason TV Schedule for 2021