The key to him is he finds different ways to impact games,” Joe Mazzulla said. “He’s grown as a player over the course of his career."

A 19-point fourth quarter from Payton Pritchard was the difference maker, as Billy Donovan's team kept responding to Boston's offensive runs, keeping the game tight until midway through the final 12 minutes of play.

Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard drives to the basket for a layup past Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey during the second half of an Emirates NBA Cup basketball game, Friday Nov. 29, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Melissa Tamez) AP