One of the adjustments that was on the table for the Celtics entering Game 3 was to give Pritchard more minutes, which is exactly what they did. Kristaps Porzingis is clearly at less than 100 percent while dealing with an illness and only saw 19 minutes in Game 3 while Pritchard played 34 minutes, which is the most he’s played in any game this series. The Celtics adjusted by playing Pritchard more, but didn’t back down at the three-point line as they hoisted 40 shots from downtown. Pritchard made 5-of-10 three-pointers as the Celtics took Game 3 by 22 points. It’s likely that this is an adjustment that could stick and Pritchard will be more of a fixture over the rest of the series than he was in the first two games.

Pritchard has been the favorite to win Sixth Man of the Year honors for most of this season, and he showed why on Sunday. With some of Boston’s stars having slow days at the office, Pritchard provided excellent offensive value off the bench. Add in Derrick White’s 30 points and Jrue Holiday (9/3/5/3 with three three-pointers) hitting three timely third-quarter threes while playing stifling defense, and the Celtics were able to take care of business in Game 1. Pritchard’s ability to provide scoring in quick bursts will be important in this series, especially if the Magic can slow down star wings Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum.

It wasn’t surprising to see Pritchard thrive with the Keys to the offense in the Celtics’ final game of the season. He finished the regular season having scored at least 20 points in three of his previous five games. His role will likely diminish come playoff time, though. Despite how exceptional he’s been off the bench this season.