Overview
- Walsh’s starting run was halted after recent reduced minutes, and he played only five first-half minutes with none after halftime in the Jan. 1 win at Sacramento.
- Two nights later, he responded with 13 points and 13 rebounds off the bench in Boston’s 146–115 victory over the Clippers, shooting 5-for-7 with three made 3-pointers.
- Joe Mazzulla framed the change as tactical, explaining the staff "went with Sam" Hauser to attack expected Clippers coverages and jump-start the offense.
- Hauser has been deployed in the starting wing slot and hit 5-of-7 from deep against the Kings, with the coach also praising his defensive presence.
- Rookie Hugo Gonzalez’s responsibilities have grown in recent weeks, and he has been identified as a potential internal candidate for expanded minutes.