4 takeaways as Celtics youth impresses in Summer League loss to Heat

LAS VEGAS — The Summer Celtics are officially off with their first game in Las Vegas, showcasing some of the youth in the franchise. In typical Celtics vs. Heat fashion, and even though it was Summer League, the teams still put together a hotly-contested showdown.

But the C’s dropped their Summer League opener to the Heat 119-114 on Saturday at the Cox Pavilion. The Celtics got some solid contributions from some of their returners. But the Heat pulled away Saturday as the C’s dropped to 0-1 in Vegas.

Offense came easy for both sides as the two teams combined for 233 points. The Heat shot 60% of their 3-pointers, but the Celtics still kept pace by making shots while generating extra chances with 15 offensive rebounds.

Jaden Springer led the way for the Celtics with 23 points; JD Davison poured in 19 points of his own. Neemias Queta, who re-signed with the C’s this summer, had 20 points and nine rebounds. Jahmi’us Ramsey also made the most of his 15 minutes, putting up 16 points. Jaime Jaquez Jr. had 29 points and 11 rebounds for the Heat.

Here are four takeaways from Boston’s loss to Miami:

Taking some steps: Fresh off signing a two-way contract earlier this week, Davison came away with a big game for the Celtics. The guard had 19 points and seven assists, shooting 6-for-6 from the field, including 3-of-3 on 3-pointers. That’s a big step up for the 21-year-old as he’s also one of the youngest players on the roster. Davison looked more seasoned Saturday than he did in past Summer Leagues in what’s a big plus for his development.

Extra reps: When the Celtics dealt for Springer from the 76ers at last season’s trade deadline, they raved about his defensive ability and his potential. That was natural considering Springer was still so young. That stays true even on this Summer League roster. Springer doesn’t turn 22 until later this year, making him the third-youngest player on this roster (behind only Davison and Jordan Walsh). That’s despite Springer entering his fourth pro season this fall. Springer showed off some good things Saturday, finishing with 23 points and six assists. He also got some reps as the point guard, giving him some added responsibilities.

Rookie watch: The Celtics featured both of their rookies, including first-round pick Baylor Scheierman, plenty of minutes. Scheierman had a tough shooting start, including some missed 3-pointers, but it was clear Saturday why the C’s saw his potential. The 6-foot-6 guard finished with 13 points, five rebounds and six assists, including some nice dishes that showed off his vision and playmaking ability. Some of the 3s were a bit rushed, but the game speed will come with more reps. Elsewhere, No. 54 pick Anton Watson had eight points in 20 minutes coming off the bench.

Slow start: Just last summer, Walsh played beyond his years as the then-teenager showed off some spirited play. He had a stellar summer, showing why he was the lone player taken by the Celtics in the 2023 draft. But there were clearly some frustrations for Walsh on Saturday, finishing with four points and five rebounds in his 25 minutes. Some of the decisions were tough, including an 0-for-6 showing from 3-point land, along with picking up four fouls. It’s still early, though, and it’s just one Summer League for the rising second-year pro.