The Boston Celtics continue to exceed expectations, finding new ways to impress. In their latest game against the Brooklyn Nets, it was rookie Baylor Scheierman who stepped up and delivered an outstanding performance. Known as the best shooter from the 2024 NBA Draft, the 24-year-old guard lived up to the hype, making a significant impact off the bench. However, despite following in Jayson Tatum’s footsteps in certain aspects, Scheierman has now chosen to carve his own path, a decision that has been acknowledged and supported by head coach Joe Mazzulla.
Baylor Scheierman Shines in a Shorthanded Celtics Lineup
The Celtics entered the matchup against the Nets with a depleted roster, as key players such as Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Jrue Holiday were unavailable. Despite missing their star power, Scheierman ensured that Boston remained competitive and prevented an embarrassing home loss.
While the Nets had answers for most of Boston’s offensive threats, they struggled to contain Scheierman’s sharpshooting. Time and again, when the Celtics needed a boost, the rookie delivered from beyond the arc. He knocked down six three-pointers, finishing with a career-high 20 points, and even imitated Tatum’s signature blow-kiss celebration after making a crucial shot.
His choice of celebration did not go unnoticed. During the post-game press conference, a reporter asked whether Tatum had given his approval for Scheierman to use his gesture. In response, the rookie revealed that they had discussed it briefly in the locker room and that he would now work on developing his own unique celebrations. This suggests that Tatum may not have been entirely pleased with the imitation.
A Rising Star or Just a One-Game Standout?
Following his impressive performance, discussions have begun regarding Scheierman’s potential as a key contributor for the Celtics moving forward. Is he a future star, or was this just a one-time breakout game? Some believe that his shooting ability could make him a valuable asset for Boston’s postseason run, while others feel that he needs more opportunities to prove himself.
Coach Mazzulla Praises Scheierman’s Mentality
During the post-game interviews, Coach Joe Mazzulla had high praise for Scheierman, emphasizing his strong mindset. He described the rookie as playing with a “chip on his shoulder” and having an “FU mentality”—a compliment that highlights his competitive nature. When asked about the praise, Scheierman agreed with Mazzulla’s assessment, stating that such a mentality is essential to surviving in a league filled with elite talent.
The rookie further explained that he approaches every game with full intensity, giving 110% effort regardless of the score or opponent. He acknowledged the level of competition in the NBA, where even getting minutes on the court is a challenge, and expressed his determination to make the most of every opportunity.
What Lies Ahead for Baylor Scheierman?
With only a month left in the regular season, the Celtics will need to evaluate whether Scheierman can be a reliable contributor in high-stakes situations. His shooting ability and fearless approach could provide a much-needed spark in the playoffs, but it remains to be seen if he will receive significant playing time once the team is back at full strength.
His standout performance against the Nets has certainly put him in the spotlight, and fans and analysts alike are debating whether he will be a postseason weapon for Boston or if this was just a brief moment of brilliance. The coming weeks will determine whether he gets another opportunity to prove himself on the big stage.