Would Payton Pritchard -- the late-first-round rookie that had been one of the best stories of the Celtics' young season -- changed the outcome of what turned into a 116-111 loss to the Kings Wednesday night? Maybe not. But he sure couldn't have hurt.
And, you know what? If nothing else, the presence of Pritchard would have undoubtedly eased some growing concerns about one piece of the Celtics' puzzle -- backup point guard.
When it comes to Danny Ainge's offseason maneuvering, things had gotten uncomfortable of late. Heading into Sacramento, Tristan Thompson looked like a shell of what we were promised.
The good news is that Thompson slowed down some of that concern with one of his best games as a Celtic, finishing with 17 points on 7-for-9 shooting. But the other veteran who was supposed to cure some of what ailed the Celtics, Jeff Teague, continues to be a concern.
With Kemba Walker not playing while managing his knee, Teague got the start. It didn't go well. The veteran shot 1-for-7 from the floor while totaling seven points and dishing out just one assist. The other alternative, second-year guard Tremont Waters, was even worse, going 1-for-8 from the field in 23 minutes.
This has bubbled up a reality: Rookie or no, Pritchard is a difference-maker for this team.
The offense, which oftentimes got bogged down when Jayson Tatum (27 points) was out of the game, misses Pritchard's court awareness. Shooting. Passing. Driving. He was a threat in all areas each time down the floor, which in turn helped make the Celtics' offensive package look more coherent.
Pritchard will be easing his way back from a sprained knee shortly. When he does come back a priority should be placed on making sure he does not get buried behind Teague. Before his injury, that was a growing concern after his minutes and production went south upon Walker's return.
In a season where the Celtics have been desperately find their identity with each passing game, this is becoming an obvious part of the equation.
More Pritchard will mean more wins. Even with the rookie in street clothes, Wednesday night should have shown that.