Overview
- Vucevic, who came off the bench Friday in Boston’s 144-118 win over New Orleans, logged 14 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists and a block in 19 minutes on 5-for-7 shooting with 3-for-5 from three.
- Joe Mazzulla praised the veteran’s handling of a midseason move from a long-time starting job in Chicago to a reserve role in a new system.
- The center returned in early April from surgery on a broken right ring finger and opened 3-for-15 across his first two games.
- Mazzulla said Boston gains when Vucevic brings force on defense, rebounds, sets firm screens, and makes shots.
- With the playoffs nearing, the Celtics are using these games to sort minutes and chemistry as Vucevic reports less soreness and a steadier rhythm.