McGrady believes Payton Pritchard is more effective coming off the bench.

In an interview, NBA legend Tracy McGrady said that Boston Celtics point guard Payton Pritchard is better able to utilize his abilities and strengths when coming off the bench.

In the 2025/26 NBA regular season, Payton Pritchard played 79 games for the Boston Celtics, averaging 17.0 points per game with a field goal percentage of 46.4% and a three-point field goal percentage of 37.7%.

With Jaylen Brown traded to the Philadelphia 76ers, how to make the Boston Celtics' overall roster function more fully will be Joe Mazra's top priority before the start of the new season.

NBA legend Tracy McGrady said, "I will continue to use Payton Pritchard as the sixth man. We all know he can play well in any role. He can handle starting, and he can adapt quickly off the bench as well."

“Joe Mazra also told us that this player can adapt to any game environment. But for me, coming off the bench is what he does best.”

Tracy McGrady pointed out, "He can immediately provide scoring opportunities when the team's offense is in a slump. Everyone knows that the Boston Celtics rely heavily on three-pointers, so there are bound to be times when the game stalls."

“But Payton Pritchard can not only shoot, but also create his own opportunities with the ball. He is an excellent self-creating offensive player. So I will continue to have him as the sixth man.”

In addition, Payton Pritchard once said, "I certainly hope to be considered one of the best bench players in the league. I love the feeling of changing the pace of the game after coming off the bench."

"I hope to bring energy and spark to the game, inject new momentum into the team and improve the pace of the game, which will also make the fans more engaged."

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