Coming into the Boston Celtics’ game against the Atlanta Hawks on Friday, March 27, Jordan Walsh had been glued to the bench for the past six games. The defensive-minded forward has struggled for playing time since Jayson Tatum returned to the rotation, with both rookie Hugo Gonzalez and two-way forward Ron Harper Jr. earning minutes over him.
However, Walsh found himself back in Joe Mazzulla’s rotation against Atlanta, earning 27 minutes of playing time. The third-year forward made a notable impact on the defensive end, using his physicality and length to impact drives, shots and make life difficult for the Hawks on the perimeter.
During his postgame news conference, Mazzulla detailed what Walsh brought to the floor during the Celtics’ 109-102 win over a Hawks roster that was 14-1 in its past 15 games.
“It (Walsh’s performance) was huge,” Mazzulla said. “Games call for toughness and physicality, and that’s something that he brings, so credit to him. The professionalism to stay ready over the course of the season says a lot about him. And I thought he gave us some great minutes tonight, great energy, and great physicality.”
Earlier this season, Walsh was a key part of Mazzulla’s starting lineup. He’s earned 20 starts in the 58 games he’s played in this season, a notable jump from one start in each of his past two seasons. However, as the season has worn on, he has found playing time to be more volatile. Some nights, he’s getting 15+ minutes; others, he’s on the floor for fleeting moments, while in recent weeks, he’s been deep in Mazzulla’s bench.
Walsh’s performance against the Hawks was a reminder of what he brings to the rotation and the impact he can make with his defense. Still, it’s worth noting that his return to the rotation came as Jaylen Brown was sidelined with injury. As such, there’s a chance he finds himself back on the bench once the MVP candidate returns to the rotation.
Nevertheless, Walsh did exactly what he was supposed to do: make the most of his minutes and remind Mazzulla what he’s capable of. Everything else is outside of his control.
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