Joe Mazzulla liked how Jayson Tatum played in the first round of the playoffs

Jayson Tatum averaged 21.8 points (41.6%) on 41.6% shooting, 10.4 rebounds, and 5.4 assists in five games versus Miami. Although those aren’t very impressive figures in terms of efficiency, Joe Mazzulla made it clear throughout practice that he was pleased with Tatum’s strategy.

“His defense was excellent, in my opinion. Mazzulla remarked, “I thought his pick-and-roll [defense] on the ball handler was really good.” “I thought he demonstrated the discipline to fight taking difficult shots versus making the extra pass, and I thought his defensive rebounding was good.”

Tatum was frequently crowded by Miami, who sent two or three defenders after him. Derrick White, one of the players who benefited from that defense, was able to obtain clear shots and averaged 22.4 points on 57.7% shooting.

Tatum seemed at ease delegating to others, and the Celtics used that to their advantage, defeating the Heat in four of the five games in the opening round of the playoffs. White took 12 more shots than Tatum in the pivotal Game 4 and finished with a playoff career-high 38 points.

Mazzulla stated, “He’s really grown this year, and it’s just going to look different every night.” “Every series will have a different appearance. Furthermore, and this is extremely crucial in my opinion, he was able to modify the series and find new ways to influence the game.

Not much changes for Al Horford with Kristaps Porzingis injured

Al Horford started the game in place of Kristaps Porzingis, who was sidelined indefinitely due to a soleus strain. He will stick with this lineup for the upcoming playoff round. Since he has spent a large portion of the season as the Sixth Man, that is technically a change.

Horford did admit, though, that not much changes for him throughout practice. In all, the 17-year-old veteran has appeared in 1078 NBA games and started 1036 of them. Horford started 33 games this season—more than half of the 65 games he was active for—in the starting lineup because Kristaps Porzingis missed 25 games and several other starters missed time.

“My strategy kind of stays the same,” Horford remarked. “I want to make sure that I’m supporting the group and playing a strong defense. that, in that regard, I’m carrying out my obligations. My work has not altered. Then, on offense, I’ll keep myself prepared and do whatever is necessary. And maintaining my impact on winning is everything, in my opinion. Nothing changes about it.

He mentioned that his backups will play longer minutes, which is the biggest adjustment.

When their numbers are called, Horford stated, “I’m expecting some of our guys—whether it’s Luke, Neemy, or Xavier—to step up and be able to play minutes for us.” “I’m thrilled about that opportunity and those guys.”

Payton Pritchard is relishing the opportunity to play meaningful playoff minutes

After signing a four-year agreement prior to the start of the season, Payton Pritchard, who was not in the starting lineup the previous year, has been an important member of the squad this year. For the Celtics this season, he averaged a career-high 9.7 points on 46.8% shooting, having a stellar season in most areas.

Pritchard expressed during practice how much he’s enjoying the chance to participate during this postseason run and support the team’s championship hopes. He played an average of 22.9 minutes per game and finished the five-game series with a +/- of 9.8 points.

“I’m prepared for it. I want to be involved in and do this,” Pritchard remarked. That’s what I wanted, so it’s kind of what I discussed last year. I wanted to help win a championship and I knew I could help.

Pritchard admitted that following a run of DNPs or a difficult playing stretch last year, his confidence was occasionally shook. However, during Game 3, Jayson Tatum referred to Payton Pritchard as the most self-assured person he had ever met.

“But you really have to know what you’re capable of and how much work you put in when you look in the mirror every morning,” Pritchard added. In the end, everything boils down to the hours and work I put in. It simply increased my self-assurance, and I now feel like I can take on anyone.

Next up: The Celtics will practice once more tomorrow before playing Cleveland or Orlando in the following round. As of right now, the Cavaliers lead the Magic in the series 3-2; Game 6 is scheduled for tonight in Orlando. Boston is ready to be flexible even if they are unsure of who their next opponent will be.