The Boston Celtics enter the playoffs with confidence, aiming to defend their title as NBA champions. While they aren’t the top seed in the Eastern Conference, the team’s playoff potential hinges on the health of stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. With both players on the court, the Celtics have demonstrated their capability to overcome any opponent in the East.

Meanwhile, the New York Knicks believe they can dethrone the Celtics and claim their own title aspirations. However, an NBA scout doubts their chances, citing the Celtics' superior 3-point shooting efficiency as a critical factor. This season, the Celtics have dominated matchups with the Knicks, leaving little doubt that they would advance if they meet again in the playoffs.

This week’s fantasy basketball landscape is seeing significant shifts as top performers rise and fall in value. Luka Doncic is shining for the Los Angeles Lakers with an average of 27.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 9.2 assists over the last seven games, helping the Lakers secure eight consecutive wins. Meanwhile, Derrick White of the Boston Celtics has emerged as a fantasy star, posting impressive stats including a 41-point game against the Portland Trail Blazers.

Coby White of the Chicago Bulls is also making headlines, scoring a career-high 44 points recently, while Payton Pritchard is solidifying his role as a key contributor for the Celtics. On the other hand, Tyrese Maxey of the Philadelphia 76ers finds himself on the decline due to a back injury, and Paul George is facing potential shut down as the Sixers aim to secure draft positioning.

Derrick White, the Boston Celtics guard, faced a bizarre dental incident after taking an elbow from Kelly Oubre Jr. during a game against the Philadelphia 76ers. In a surprising turn of events, White's artificial teeth, which he had placed after chipping his real teeth in the previous NBA Finals, flew out during the impact. Despite the injury, White returned to the court and contributed significantly to the Celtics' victory with six assists, although his shooting suffered. Teammates noted the incident in a lighthearted manner, emphasizing the importance of dental appointments to avoid such mishaps.

In an unforgettable night, Payton Pritchard and Derrick White of the Boston Celtics etched their names in NBA history by combining for a record-setting performance. They shot an impressive 19 three-pointers, marking the most ever in a single game. Both players surpassed 40 points, a feat never accomplished by teammates in Celtics history, and together, they became the first to record their first 40-point games on the same night.

Pritchard was particularly outstanding, scoring 43 points with 10 rebounds and 5 assists, while White contributed 41 points along with his stellar shooting. Their achievements come amidst key absences from the Celtics’ star players, providing Pritchard the opportunity to shine. As the Celtics battle for playoff positioning, this performance indicates the potential for more elevated roles for Pritchard, making him a valuable asset for fantasy managers.

The Boston Celtics showcased an impressive offensive performance against the Portland Trail Blazers, led by the stellar play of Payton Pritchard and Derrick White. Pritchard set a new career-high with 43 points, while White matched that feat with 41 points. This marked the first time in Celtics history that two players scored over 40 points in the same game. With Jayson Tatum absent, both guards took the opportunity to step up, combining for 84 points and setting a franchise record with 19 three-pointers made together.

Pritchard’s contributions included a franchise-record 10 three-pointers, while White closely trailed with nine. Their combined efforts not only provided a thrilling win for the Celtics but also highlighted their potential in the absence of star players. Pritchard's outstanding scoring from the bench ranks among the best in NBA history, with only a few players having scored more points in a single game coming off the bench.