Rookie Baylor Scheierman caught fire in the second half on Tuesday and finished with a career high in scoring, helping the Boston Celtics defeat the Brooklyn Nets.
Scheierman produced 20 points, three rebounds, two steals and one assist in the 104-96 victory at TD Garden. He went 6-of-7 from 3-point range in 16 minutes off the bench as the Celtics became the third team to reach 50 wins this season.
The 30th pick scored 17 points alone in the second half as the Celtics outscored the Nets 60-47 over the last two quarters to win. He became the fourth rookie in franchise history to score 20 points in a game with at least six 3-pointers.
“I think he is just a tough kid that continues to work,” Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla said. “(Assistant coach) Craig (Luschenat) and the guys do a great job of creating an environment of learning and work ethic regardless of what is going on and keeping those guys ready. Baylor is next on the list, along with the other guys, and he delivered tonight. It is a credit to him and credit to the staff.”
Scheierman has primarily played in mop-up duty this season for Mazzulla, with so many players ahead of him on the depth chart. He was thrust into a larger role on Tuesday, with the Celtics down Jayson Tatum (knee) and Jaylen Brown (knee).
While the 24-year-old dazzled with his timely shooting, Mazzulla pointed to his rebounding and defensive effort as two other areas that helped the Celtics ultimately win. He took advantage of the opportunity to play a significant role and showcased his skill set.
“Every time I step out onto that court, I’m trying to go 110% and play as hard as I can, regardless of the score or who we’re playing,” Scheierman said. “I just try to put my best foot forward every single time.”
Scheierman has spent most of the season in the G League, averaging 19.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 1.2 steals on 37.7% shooting from 3-point range in 25 games with the Maine Celtics. He had only totaled 30 points entering play on Tuesday, including a 15-point effort on March 6.
Mazzulla previously commended Scheierman for his work and even believes the former Creighton All-American is further ahead on defense than initially thought. Scheierman views the G League assignments as great opportunities to improve, which appears to be paying off.
“I think I’ve just done a good job of trying to be where my feet are, whether that is Maine or (Boston), and try to learn as much as possible from the people up in Maine or while I’m here,” Scheierman said. “(I want to) take bits and pieces from everybody and kind of mold it into my routine and how I go about things. I think that is the biggest thing I’ve seen over the course of the year: the growth that I’ve learned and staying ready for whenever my number is called.”
