As the Boston Celtics gear up for another deep playoff run they’ll be relying on contributions from their entire roster. One player who could play a crucial role off the bench is high-energy forward Oshae Brissett.
Oshae Brissett: The High-Energy Forward Providing Depth for the Boston Celtics
The 25-year-old Oshae Brissett is in his fourth NBA season and second with the Celtics after previous stops with the Toronto Raptors and Indiana Pacers. The 6’7″ forward has a special combination of size, quickness and determination that has made him an invaluable member of Boston’s rotation even though his numbers don’t leap off the page.
Brissett is averaging a respectable 10.8 minutes per game this season with 3.6 points and 2.8 rebounds. But his influence frequently goes far beyond the box office. Brissett is a powerful presence on the inside breaking glass and playing tough defense with his sculpted 210-pound body.
Joe Mazzulla, who is also the head coach of the Celtics remarked
“Oshae is a load down there.” “He’s very tough and full of energy. Every time he sets foot on the floor, he gives you everything he’s got and shows no fear toward anyone.”
Joe Mazzulla
Even if he doesn’t play primarily for the score, Brissett has demonstrated that he can score a lot when needed. This season, he is shooting a solid 46% from the field relying on his strength to outmuscle smaller opponents and his agility to finish around the hoop. He has made 27.3% of his efforts from three-point range.
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Brissett really enjoys it when it comes to defense and the glass. He averages 2.8 rebounds while playing just over 10 minutes a night. He boxes out and pursues the ball ferociously with his muscle and 7’1″ wingspan. He has also demonstrated the ability to disrupt plays and guard several spots with his length and athleticism.
Oshae Brissett’s Gritty Play Could Be Key in Postseason
“Having a guy like Oshae Brissett who can knock down shots, guard multiple positions and just play so hard is huge for us” said Celtics star Jayson Tatum. “He’s always ready whenever his number is called.”
Brissett’s importance may grow as the Celtics push for the playoffs and try to rest key players like Jaylen Brown, Tatum and Al Horford. With Xavier Tillman, Luke Kornet, Neemias Queta and other reserve bigs in the mix. Brissett will have lots of chances to display his special set of skills.
The Los Angeles Clippers selected Syracuse product Brissett 36th overall in the 2019 NBA Draft considering him to have raw but interesting potential with his physical tools. He might never become an offensive great but he has established himself as a dominant energy player in the hustling game.
Those types of players are invaluable for a team like the Celtics with championship aspirations. As the intensity ratchets up in the playoffs, Brissett’s combination of toughness, athleticism and non-stop motor could make him the x-factor Boston needs to make a deep run.