As a rookie on the defending NBA champions, Baylor Scheierman knows he has limited opportunities to make much of an impression outside of practice.
Scheierman got an opportunity Tuesday night and delivered, scoring a career-high 20 points in a gritty effort that had his Boston Celtics coaches, teammates and fans on their feet in appreciation.
Coach Joe Mazzulla said more impressive than the career highs for points and 3-pointers made was the way Scheierman carried himself as the Celtics won while resting their top two players.
"The 3s are a plus. To me it was the defensive effort and the offensive rebounding and the toughness that he played with," Mazzulla said after Scheierman's career night helped Boston beat the Brooklyn Nets 104-96.