Why Thursday Is So Important For Payton Pritchard's Celtics Future
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This is a big week for Payton Pritchard and the Boston Celtics.
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The 28-year-old is still under contract with the Celtics for two more seasons, but starting Thursday, he will be eligible to sign an extension that could keep him in Boston through the 2030-31 season.
Pritchard has developed into one of Boston's most important players. He was named the NBA's Sixth Man of the Year in 2024-25. He followed that up with his best season yet, averaging 17.0 points, 5.2 assists and 3.9 rebounds in 2025-26 while starting 50 of 79 games.
Pritchard's development could make him a very rich man.
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Why Thursday Is So Important For Payton Pritchard's Celtics Future
Beginning Thursday, Oct. 1, Pritchard is eligible to sign an extension with the Celtics.
There's an interesting wrinkle, though.
Pritchard is currently on one of the NBA's best-value contracts, but that actually limits how much the Celtics can offer him in an extension.
Based on current estimates, Boston can offer Pritchard a maximum three-year extension worth roughly $69 million.
MORE:8 Big Things You Need to Know About Payton Pritchard's Celtics Extension Options
If Pritchard signs the maximum three-year extension, his salary would jump from $8.3 million in 2027-28 to approximately $21.3 million in 2028-29. He'd then make around $23 million in 2029-30 and $24.9 million in 2030-31.
Pritchard has until Oct. 19 to sign an extension this offseason. If he doesn't, he will have another opportunity to negotiate with the Celtics next offseason.
Pritchard could also bet on himself and wait until free agency in 2028, when he could potentially earn more.