The West Linn, Oregon native has been cutting a path through the league on offense like a hot knife through butter so far this season.

His relentless full-court pressure on Sunday helped slow the Wizards, whose fast-paced attack appeared bothered by the obstacle.

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.

Jayson Tatum is a top-5 or top-7 player in the NBA. The St. Louis native has consistently improved his game since entering the league, and is now a genuine challenger for the league MVP award. Last season,

Oregon Ducks Payton Pritchard recently became the first player in Boston Celtics franchise history to score 25+ points, 10+ assists and 5+ three-pointers made off the bench. The 2020 Pac-12 Conference Player of the Year has been one of the best reserves.