<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nikola-jokic">Nikola Jokic</a> is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of this century. For years, he has starred with the Denver Nuggets, leading them to their first NBA title in 2023. The Serbian superstar’s massive impact on the game has earned him plenty of high praise — but few compliments have been as unusual as the one delivered by Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla.



“Jokic is like with water polo,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/joe-mazzulla">Mazzulla</a> said in a recent interview on the Games With Names podcast. “If you watch water polo, you’re essentially watching Jokic play. That’s exactly how — that’s how he plays.”



Far from being a dig or a joke, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics">Boston</a> coach made the comparison as a genuine compliment, highlighting Jokic’s unique qualities that make him such an effective and unconventional player on the court.



“You can tell how he palms the ball, how he one-touch passes it when it’s midair, how he almost embraces people draping on him because like you’re having to do both of those things,” Mazzulla continued. “And like watching him is like watching a water polo there. So like when I watch Jokic, I see water polo.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250711_BUS_438371_Joe-Mazzulla-1-1024x576_bfa22040.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-398015" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162549/Joe-Mazzulla-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162549/Joe-Mazzulla-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162549/Joe-Mazzulla-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162549/Joe-Mazzulla-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162549/Joe-Mazzulla-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162549/Joe-Mazzulla-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162549/Joe-Mazzulla-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162549/Joe-Mazzulla-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Jokic’s versatile style of play</h2>



The Nuggets star possesses a complete and diverse skill set that allows him to contribute in virtually every area of the game. He has transformed the perception of what a big man can and should do on the court, expanding on the evolution that earlier players like Kevin Garnett introduced to the league.


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Jokic’s versatility makes him a central figure on both ends of the floor. Not only is he Denver’s scoring leader — finishing the 2024–25 regular season ranked third in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> in points per game with 29.6 — but he’s also an elite playmaker and a critical piece on defense.



In addition to his scoring, Nikola excels at facilitating, finishing second in the league in assists per game with 10.2. He also ranked second in defensive rebounds (9.9) and sixth in steals (1.8).



<h2>Mazzulla also analyzes Embiid and Harden</h2>



After describing Jokic, Mazzulla turned his attention to another dominant international big man, Joel Embiid, emphasizing how his background in other sports has shaped his game. “When I watch Embiid, I see how you know, his soccer background gave him the footwork,” Joe said. “The angles, the hand-eye coordination, the timing to be so effective for such a big guy.”



Finally, the Boston coach discussed James Harden — again, with an unexpected comparison. “Watching him play is like listening to like Moonlight Sonata. Like, never gets sped up. Plays at his own pace,” Mazzulla explained. “Always smooth. Does what he does, you know.”


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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/joe-mazzulla">Joe Mazzulla</a>’s journey to becoming the head coach of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics">Boston Celtics</a> is one marked by determination and talent. Rising through the ranks, he has not only made his mark on the court but also begun to make waves in the financial world.



In a short time, he has proven himself as a capable leader with poise and strategy. His story, from a small college player to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> head coach, has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike, sparking interest in his personal fortune.



As he continues to build his legacy with one of the most prestigious teams, his net worth is on the rise. His success both on and off the court is setting him up for even greater financial opportunities in the years to come.



<h2>What is Joe Mazzulla’s net worth?</h2>



Joe Mazzulla’s journey from a modest basketball background to the helm of the Boston Celtics is a testament to perseverance and talent. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated to be around $5 million, as Sportskeeda reported.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250514_BUS_398006_Joe-Mazzulla-2-1024x576_3ba36cc5.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-398014" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162543/Joe-Mazzulla-2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162543/Joe-Mazzulla-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162543/Joe-Mazzulla-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162543/Joe-Mazzulla-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162543/Joe-Mazzulla-2-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162543/Joe-Mazzulla-2-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162543/Joe-Mazzulla-2-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162543/Joe-Mazzulla-2.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Joe Mazzulla of the Boston Celtics reacts in the fourth quarter against the New York Knicks in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs in 2025. (Source: Elsa/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



This financial milestone reflects not only his current role with the Celtics but also his previous coaching stints, including positions at Fairmont State and as an assistant with the Maine Red Claws.



These roles, though less lucrative, laid the foundation for his current success. His ascent in the NBA coaching ranks has been swift and impactful, culminating in leading the popular team to their 18th championship in 2024.



<h2>What is Joe Mazzulla’s salary?</h2>



In February 2023, the Boston Celtics officially named Joe Mazzulla as their head coach, offering him a four-year contract extension valued at approximately $16.6 million, according to sources like Marca.



This deal reflects the organization’s confidence in his leadership and vision for the team’s future. The contract outlines an annual salary of about $4.5 million, positioning him among the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/highest-paid-head-coaches-in-the-nba">higher-paid coaches in the league</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250514_BUS_398006_Joe-Mazzulla-1-1024x576_1060a964.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-398015" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162549/Joe-Mazzulla-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162549/Joe-Mazzulla-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162549/Joe-Mazzulla-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162549/Joe-Mazzulla-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162549/Joe-Mazzulla-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162549/Joe-Mazzulla-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162549/Joe-Mazzulla-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/14162549/Joe-Mazzulla-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Joe Mazzulla of the Boston Celtics reacts against the New York Knicks during the second quarter in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs in 2025. (Source: Al Bello/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



While this figure doesn’t rival the earnings of top NBA players, it underscores the value placed on effective coaching in achieving team success. His compensation package sets expectations for continued excellence.



<h2>Joe Mazzulla’s success in the NBA and with the Celtics</h2>



Joe Mazzulla’s influence on Boston extends beyond financial metrics; his strategic acumen has been pivotal in the team’s recent successes. In the 2023-24 season, he guided the Celtics to a league-best 64–18 record, culminating in their 18th NBA championship.



His coaching philosophy, inspired in part by soccer tactician <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pep-guardiola">Pep Guardiola</a>, emphasizes adaptability and situational awareness. This approach has resonated with players and analysts alike, earning him accolades and solidifying his reputation as a forward-thinking leader.



Under his guidance, the Celtics have demonstrated resilience and cohesion, attributes that have been instrumental in their <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-playoffs-format">playoff</a> performances. His ability to foster a winning culture has not only revitalized the team but also positioned him as one of the most promising coaches.

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The Boston Celtics secured a crucial road win over the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-knicks">New York Knicks</a> in Game 3 of the 2024–25 NBA Playoffs, cutting the series deficit to 2–1. Head coach Joe Mazzulla shed light on the team’s strategy that helped Boston bounce back in the series.



“One man’s trash is another’s treasure,” the saying goes—and for Joe Mazzulla, that treasure came in the form of exploiting Knicks center Mitchell Robinson. Boston made a concerted effort in the second half to repeatedly foul Robinson and disrupt New York’s offensive rhythm.



“Just process over results,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/joe-mazzulla">Mazzulla</a> said via SNY Knicks on X (formerly Twitter). “You always stick to the process of what you think gives you the best chance to win on that possession and to win the game.”



The strategy paid off. Robinson was limited to just 6 points, 8 rebounds, and 1 assist. More importantly, the Knicks’ bench was neutralized, unable to close the gap as Boston maintained control throughout the second half. Expect the Celtics to stick with this tactical approach moving forward.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250511_BUS_395253_jalen-brunson-derrick-white-1024x576_77b6ce59.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Jalen Brunson drives to the basket against Derrick White" class="wp-image-394091" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/08182547/jalen-brunson-derrick-white-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/08182547/jalen-brunson-derrick-white-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/08182547/jalen-brunson-derrick-white-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/08182547/jalen-brunson-derrick-white-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/08182547/jalen-brunson-derrick-white-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/08182547/jalen-brunson-derrick-white-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/08182547/jalen-brunson-derrick-white-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/08182547/jalen-brunson-derrick-white.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks drives to the basket against Derrick White #9 of the Boston Celtics in Game Two of the Eastern Conference semifinals.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Jaylen Brown delivers strong message after Game 3 win</h2>



Rather than celebrate, Jaylen Brown kept his focus locked in after the blowout win. Speaking to reporters postgame, the Celtics star sent a direct message that emphasized the team’s playoff mindset. “You gotta beat us four times—that’s what it comes down to,” Brown said via the NBA’s X account. “There’s a lot of basketball to be played.”


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Brown backed up his words with a strong all-around performance, finishing with 19 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block in 36 minutes. He was one of five <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics">Celtics</a> to score in double figures in a well-rounded team effort.



<h2>Tatum rises to the occasion—and the record books</h2>



Jayson Tatum returned to top form in Game 3, not only powering Boston to victory but also making NBA playoff history. Tatum surpassed Kobe Bryant on the league’s all-time playoff scoring list for players under 28 years old. With his Game 3 stat line, Tatum moved into second place with 2,892 playoff points—trailing only LeBron James, who holds the top spot with 3,275.



After squandering 20-point leads in each of the first two games, the Celtics faced the very real threat of falling into a 3–0 series hole—an all-but-fatal position in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> history. But Tatum’s leadership and production ensured Boston stayed alive and regained momentum heading into Game 4.

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Joe Mazzulla secured his first championship last year, leading the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics">Boston Celtics</a> to the title in the NBA Finals against the Dallas Mavericks. This season, the team has had an impressive performance that has allowed them to secure their spot in the NBA playoffs, and they are now aiming to repeat their success during the critical stage of the campaign.



One of the key factors this year has been their impressive performance on the road. Currently, the Celtics lead the NBA in road victories, with a remarkable record of 32-7, which even surpasses their performance at TD Garden, where they stand at 24-12.



“I think each year, you develop different kinds of strengths, especially with the same team. And this year, it just happened to be our road mentality,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/joe-mazzulla">Mazzulla</a> explained when asked about it in the post-game press conference following Boston’s victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday night at FedExForum, shared by the NBA’s official website.



“I think every year just takes on a different identity and different challenges,” the head coach added. He also explained that becoming strong on the road wasn’t necessarily a goal they set for the season: “I think this year, we never talk about it. It just kind of became what it is.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250401_BUS_368295_Mazzulla-Tatum-1024x576_811aefe4.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics speaks with head coach Joe Mazzulla during game one of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Miami Heat at TD Garden on May 17, 2023 in Boston, Massachusetts." class="wp-image-273962" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics speaks with head coach Joe Mazzulla during game one of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Miami Heat at TD Garden on May 17, 2023. </figcaption></figure>



Finally, Mazzulla downplayed the importance of this statistic. “I think we try to play consistent basketball,” he said. “I think that means we are something and 12 at home? I mean, it’s really just four or five games. I mean, it’s not that big of a difference.”


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<h2>The Celtics could set a historic NBA record</h2>



Despite Joe Mazzulla stating that he doesn’t place too much emphasis on the Celtics’ road performance this season, they could achieve a historic feat in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> if they continue their strong play outside of TD Garden.



With 32 road victories, the Celtics are just two wins away from matching the best-ever mark achieved by an NBA team in a regular season. In 2015-16, the Golden State Warriors, who, like the Celtics now, were defending champions, set the record with 34 road victories.



The Celtics have two more games on the road ahead: against the New York Knicks and the Orlando Magic, scheduled for next Tuesday and Wednesday, respectively. If they continue their current form, they could achieve something historic.

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On Saturday night, the Boston Celtics faced off against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a> in what remains one of the most iconic and high-profile matchups in sports. As always, both teams left everything on the court, but it was the Celtics who came away with a commanding 111-101 victory. Following the win, head coach Joe Mazzulla highlighted the outstanding performance of veteran big man Al Horford.



The Lakers aggressively targeted Horford, sending their top scorers—LeBron James and Luka Doncic—straight at him, trying to exploit their speed advantage. However, isolating Horford didn’t work as well as Lakers head coach JJ Redick had likely envisioned. Instead, Mazzulla thoroughly enjoyed watching the 37-year-old rise to the challenge.



“It motivates him. When people try to attack him, it just fuels him even more,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/joe-mazzulla">Mazzulla</a> said of the Lakers’ strategy. “And I got to watch five straight possessions of him defending at a high level. At one point, I wasn’t even coaching—I was just watching him. And I thought, ‘Man, this guy’s a future Hall of Famer.’ I get to witness this for free. You have to appreciate that perspective. He’s just an innate competitor, and his energy inspires our team.”



The five-time All-Star filled the stat sheet with 14 points, nine rebounds, four assists, three steals, and a block. He also posted a +16 plus-minus rating, the second-highest of any player in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> game.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250309_BUS_351854_GettyImages-2203627034-1-1024x576_0f2f2c0d.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Al Horford #42 of the Boston Celtics inbounds the ball during the first quarter of the game against the Portland Trail Blazer" class="wp-image-351869" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/09185717/GettyImages-2203627034-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/09185717/GettyImages-2203627034-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/09185717/GettyImages-2203627034-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/09185717/GettyImages-2203627034-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/09185717/GettyImages-2203627034-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/09185717/GettyImages-2203627034-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/09185717/GettyImages-2203627034-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/09185717/GettyImages-2203627034-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Al Horford #42 of the Boston Celtics inbounds the ball during the first quarter of the game against the Portland Trail Blazer</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Jayson Tatum on Horford’s impact</h2>



Jayson Tatum, who had a monster performance with 40 points, 12 rebounds, eight assists, two steals, and a block, also praised Horford for his defensive effort. The veteran big man held his own against both James and Doncic throughout the game, playing a crucial role in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics">Boston</a>’s victory.


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“Al is one of a kind,” Tatum said in his postgame press conference. “He’s the anchor of our defense and the heart and soul of our team. He keeps us emotionally steady. What he’s still able to provide in year 18 is remarkable. I don’t think that gets talked about enough—being such an integral part of a championship-caliber team at this stage of his career. We wouldn’t be who we are without him.”



<h2>Tatum reflects on the game</h2>



Tatum logged a season-high 45 minutes to help seal the victory, especially when the Lakers mounted a furious comeback. Boston’s once 22-point lead had dwindled to just four with 5:06 remaining in the fourth quarter. Despite the exhaustion, Tatum knew he could rely on his teammates—especially <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/al-horford">Horford</a>.



“What he brings on the defensive end gives us confidence,” Tatum explained. “We trust him to switch, guard his man, and make things difficult on whoever he’s defending—knowing we’re all on the same page behind him. We don’t worry about who Al is guarding.” Tatum then capped his comments with a heartfelt statement. “I’m the biggest Al Horford fan there is,” he said. “I love that guy.”

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Joe Mazzulla praises star player as future Hall of Famer after Celtics’ win over Lakers - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics">Boston Celtics</a> secured a hard-fought 110-103 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Sunday afternoon, relying on a balanced team effort to overcome the defending NBA champions. Despite another impressive stat line from Nikola Jokic and strong performances from Denver’s starters, Joe Mazzulla’s squad executed their strategy effectively to claim the win.



When facing the Nuggets, most teams focus on finding ways to contain Jokić, the reigning NBA Finals MVP. However, after the game, Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla revealed a different approach to handling Denver’s superstar.



“We didn’t talk about Jokić at all in the game plan. It’s not about him… you don’t really talk about him in a game plan. You talk about all the other stuff that you can control,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/joe-mazzulla">Mazzulla</a> said, per Noa Dalzell of CelticsBlog.



Despite not specifically game-planning for him, the Celtics managed to limit Jokić’s impact in key moments. The Serbian big man still put up strong numbers—20 points, 14 rebounds, and nine assists—but lacked significant contributions from his supporting cast outside of Jamal Murray and Christian Braun. On the other side, the Celtics were led by Jaylen Brown, who finished with 22 points and eight assists.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250303_BUS_347310_GettyImages-2202322028-1-1024x576_c24ada86.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics hugs Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets after their game at TD Garden" class="wp-image-347326" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02204418/GettyImages-2202322028-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02204418/GettyImages-2202322028-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02204418/GettyImages-2202322028-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02204418/GettyImages-2202322028-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02204418/GettyImages-2202322028-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02204418/GettyImages-2202322028-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02204418/GettyImages-2202322028-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02204418/GettyImages-2202322028-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics hugs Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets after their game at TD Garden</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Game breakdown in the first half</h2>



Both the Celtics and Nuggets have taken a slightly quieter path this season, allowing teams like the Cavaliers (East) and Thunder (West) to dominate the spotlight. However, with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> playoffs looming, both squads know the real battle begins in April.


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Boston took control early, building a commanding lead before halftime. With just over two minutes left in the second quarter, a Jayson Tatum three-pointer pushed the Celtics’ advantage to 59-39.



<h2>Second half and Nuggets resurgence</h2>



Denver, however, responded after the break. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets">Nuggets</a> found their rhythm behind a resurgent Murray, who had struggled in the first half with just four points. His second-half explosion—scoring 22 of his 26 points after intermission—nearly brought Denver back. A clutch bucket from Murray with 1:15 left in the game cut the Celtics’ lead to just three at 102-99.



But Boston proved too deep and too disciplined down the stretch. Veteran big man Al Horford delivered a crucial performance, finishing with 19 points, eight rebounds, and a 7-for-12 shooting night in 35 minutes. Derrick White also stepped up in the clutch, knocking down key three-pointers and coming up with a crucial steal to cap off his 17-point night. Tatum, despite struggling from beyond the arc (1-for-7 from three), came close to a triple-double, posting 16 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists.



For Denver, Murray’s 26-point effort and Braun’s surprising 24-point outing were not enough to overcome the Celtics’ depth. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nikola-jokic">Jokic</a>, while effective, was well-defended at times, finishing one assist shy of another triple-double.



With this win, Boston continues to solidify its position as one of the top contenders in the East, while Denver will look to make adjustments as they gear up for another deep NBA postseason run.

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The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boston Celtics</a> found themselves at the center of one of the NBA’s most unpredictable nights. They controlled the early stages but struggled to maintain their lead. The Cleveland Cavaliers rallied and secured a 123-116 victory. This loss marked Boston’s second consecutive defeat, raising concerns about their recent form. Celtics’ defensive struggles left the team vulnerable down the stretch. After the game, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jaylen-brown" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jaylen Brown</a> reflected on the team performance.



“Looking forward to the next time we see them…I think it was a good fight…I think, give credit to Cleveland, they played well. They shot the ball incredibly well, made timely baskets, and they climbed back into the game on the road. That’s tough to do. So you’ve gotta give them credit,” stated Jaylen Brown as reported by the Athletic.



The Celtics’ defense is typically one of the most reliable in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>. However, they struggled to bounce back from their poor performance against the Detroit Pistons, which carried over into their matchup with the Cavaliers. Boston’s defensive issues were especially evident in the closing moments. 



Despite leading for most of the game, they failed to contain Cleveland’s three-point shooting and gave up too many second-chance opportunities. These lapses ultimately cost them the game.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250302_BUS_346626_Jaylen-Brown-Boston-Celtics-1024x576_92464176.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Jaylen Brown dribbling" class="wp-image-334861" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/12135559/Jaylen-Brown-Boston-Celtics-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/12135559/Jaylen-Brown-Boston-Celtics-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/12135559/Jaylen-Brown-Boston-Celtics-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/12135559/Jaylen-Brown-Boston-Celtics-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/12135559/Jaylen-Brown-Boston-Celtics-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/12135559/Jaylen-Brown-Boston-Celtics-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/12135559/Jaylen-Brown-Boston-Celtics-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/12135559/Jaylen-Brown-Boston-Celtics.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics dribbles the ball during a game against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center on February 02, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Celtics’ Joe Mazzulla speaks out after tough loss to Cavaliers</h2>



Celtics head coach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/joe-mazzulla" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Joe Mazzulla</a> did not shy away from accountability after Boston’s tough loss to the Cavaliers. He acknowledged that the entire team, including himself, needed to improve. 


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“In a game where you lose like that, everybody has to be better. Coaches have to be better, players have to be better. You’ve gotta make better adjustments. You’ve gotta put guys in better positions,” stated Joe Mazzulla.



Despite the loss, Mazzulla defended the contributions of Sam Hauser, highlighting his impact on defense. “He (Sam Hauser) has been a great defender in the league for the last 2-3 years. He’s earned a reputation for that,” stated Joe Mazzulla.



<h2>Celtics’ offense continues to rank among the NBA’s best</h2>



Despite the surprising loss to the Cavaliers, the Boston Celtics’ offense remained a bright spot. Jaylen Brown played an outstanding game. He scored 37 points, grabbed 5 rebounds, and added 2 assists. 



Jayson Tatum was equally impressive. He finished with 46 points and dished out 9 assists. His impact went beyond scoring. He also secured 11 defensive rebounds, showing his presence on both ends of the floor. These performances prove that the Celtics’ offense remains one of the best in the NBA.

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The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boston Celtics</a> are among the best teams in the NBA. They currently hold the second spot in the Eastern Conference and are nearing the playoffs. Jayson Tatum has been outstanding this season. However, Tatum is not the only one making an impact. Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porzingis have also stepped up when needed. Joe Mazzulla’s unusual decision regarding team captaincy may have influenced this performance. He recently explained the reasoning behind his choice.



“At the end of the day, we all have a role and a responsibility to the culture and to the locker room, and giving it to one person takes away the leadership of everybody…I think the best thing about this team is that everyone’s a captain in the sense that everyone has a role to play, everyone has a job to do, and everyone’s job is to impact winning…But at the end of the day, we all have to carry the responsibility of leadership,” stated Joe Mazzulla as reported by WEEI.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/joe-mazzulla" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jo</a><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/joe-mazzulla" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">e Mazzulla</a>’s opinion on leadership reflects the collective mindset that defines the Boston Celtics this season. Instead of relying on a single captain, he promotes shared responsibility. This approach allows every player to contribute in their own way. It has fostered a strong locker room culture where both veterans and young players understand their roles. They embrace the need to step up when the moment demands it, strengthening the team’s overall chemistry.



Thanks to this mentality, the Celtics have remained consistent and resilient. They have adapted to challenges as a unified group. Mazzulla’s leadership has strengthened team chemistry. It has also translated into strong performances, keeping Boston among the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>’s top contenders.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250223_BUS_342258_Mazzulla-Tatum-1024x576_eb839b5e.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics speaks with head coach Joe Mazzulla during game one of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Miami Heat at TD Garden on May 17, 2023 in Boston, Massachusetts." class="wp-image-273962" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics speaks with head coach Joe Mazzulla during game one of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Miami Heat at TD Garden on May 17, 2023 in Boston, Massachusetts. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Are the Boston Celtics true contenders for the NBA championship?</h2>



The Boston Celtics are undoubtedly one of the top contenders for the NBA championship this season. They have one of the best records in the league and a deep, talented roster. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown lead the team with their skill and experience. The Celtics have a strong mix of scoring, defense, and leadership. With all these pieces in place, they are well-equipped to compete at the highest level.


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What makes the Celtics even more dangerous is their balanced team approach. Head coach Joe Mazzulla has created a system where every player contributes to winning. However, the Celtics cannot afford to be overconfident. Teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Memphis Grizzlies have also been consistent and strong. While Boston remains a top contender, they still face tough competition.

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Jayson Tatum’s <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boston Celtics</a> have enjoyed an impressive season, currently sitting second in the Eastern Conference behind the Cleveland Cavaliers and third in the NBA overall, trailing only the Cavaliers and Oklahoma City Thunder. Head coach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/joe-mazzulla" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Joe Mazzulla</a> credits the team’s success to their focus and disciplined approach.



“The guys do a great job focusing on the process…they don’t get distracted by what’s not most important. Win or lose, we have an understanding of where we’re at, where we want to get to, what we have to work on, and where we can get better, and they stick to that whether we win or lose. They do a good job of not getting distracted by things that don’t impact winning.”



Consistency has been a hallmark of the Celtics, who have remarkably avoided losing three consecutive games for the past 20 months. In their December 27 matchup against the Indiana Pacers, they came dangerously close to breaking that streak but rallied to secure a commanding victory. The Celtics’ success is built on both ends of the floor. Offensively, Jayson Tatum and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jaylen-brown" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jaylen Brown</a> are among the league’s elite, averaging 28.7 and 24.6 points per game, respectively. Defensively, the team’s cohesion and adaptability enable them to counter diverse playing styles effectively. Boston’s depth has also been a significant factor.



The franchise has assembled a well-rounded roster, with a strong bench that allows key players like Tatum and Brown to rest without compromising competitiveness on <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>. This depth not only enhances internal competition but also helps mitigate the risk of long-term injuries. Moreover, the Celtics’ mental toughness has been pivotal. Whether overcoming injuries or bouncing back from rough stretches, the team has consistently demonstrated resilience, a quality that could prove invaluable as they aim for postseason success.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241230_BUS_302863_Mazzulla-Tatum-1024x576_7e343476.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics speaks with head coach Joe Mazzulla during game one of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Miami Heat at TD Garden on May 17, 2023 in Boston, Massachusetts." class="wp-image-273962" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics speaks with head coach Joe Mazzulla during game one of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Miami Heat at TD Garden on May 17, 2023 in Boston, Massachusetts. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Jaylen Brown demonstrates his ability to lead the Celtics’ offense</h2>



In the Boston Celtics’ 123-114 loss to the Indiana Pacers on December 29, Jaylen Brown delivered a standout performance, scoring 31 points, along with 4 rebounds and 6 assists. He was the team’s brightest spot in the game and matched Tyrese Haliburton of the Pacers, who also recorded 31 points, while adding 6 rebounds and 7 assists. Brown’s offensive display outshone Jayson Tatum’s performance, reaffirming his ability to lead even in tough situations.


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Following the Celtics’ dominant 142-103 bounce-back win against the Pacers, Brown reflected on the earlier loss with a calm and composed perspective. “I wasn’t concerned at all. I think that’s just the grind of the season. It’s a new year, you can’t expect everything to just go perfect,” affirmed Brown who also added: “Adversity, you need it to know what you are made of. So those moments, you don’t get concerned. You look to your guys, look to your group and use it as an opportunity to get better. It’s an opportunity to see what we’re made of.”



Brown’s leadership and poise have been crucial for the Celtics, as he continues to stand out even during difficult stretches. His ability to remain composed and focused has been a stabilizing force for the team. Despite the December 29 loss, the Celtics remain firmly in second place in the Eastern Conference, chasing the Cleveland Cavaliers for the top spot. With consistent performances from Brown and support from key players like Tatum, Boston aims to stay competitive as the season progresses.

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After an outstanding performance by Jayson Tatum, leading the Boston Celtics to a commanding 123-98 victory over the Chicago Bulls, coach Joe Mazzulla and teammate Kristaps Porzingis didn’t hesitate to heap praise on the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> champion and Celtics superstar.



“He’s not a personal record player — he doesn’t do everything just for PR,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kristaps-porzingis">Porzingis</a> said. “He actually makes the right play. He doesn’t need to score 50 every night. He’s hungry for winning, and there’s a big difference. A lot of people take him for granted.”



Porzingis went on to highlight Tatum’s versatility: “He’s able to do it all on the basketball court. Guard anybody, dish out 10 assists, steal some rebounds from me,” he added, underlining the contrast between Tatum and other NBA stars who often prioritize personal accolades over team success.



Coach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/joe-mazzulla">Mazzulla</a> echoed those sentiments, emphasizing that Tatum’s greatness has already been established due to his sustained excellence. “Because he’s been doing great things for such a long time, I still think he gets taken for granted,” Mazzulla said. “It comes relatively easy to him. We’re in Boston, so that’s the expectation.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241223_BUS_298792_Kristaps-Porzingis-1024x576_5bf6a86b.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Kristaps Porzingis" class="wp-image-262108" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/Kristaps-Porzingis-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/Kristaps-Porzingis-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/Kristaps-Porzingis-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/Kristaps-Porzingis-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/Kristaps-Porzingis-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/Kristaps-Porzingis-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/Kristaps-Porzingis-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/Kristaps-Porzingis.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kristaps Porzingis #8 of the Boston Celtics winks during a press conference after Boston’s 106-88 win against the Dallas Mavericks in Game Five of the 2024 NBA Finals at TD Garden on June 17, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts.</figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/jayson-tatum">Tatum</a>, a five-time All-Star and three-time All-NBA First Team selection, has consistently proven himself as one of the league’s elite players. However, as Mazzulla and Porzingis pointed out, his contributions are often overshadowed by the Celtics’ high expectations and his understated approach to stardom.


 

 

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<h2>The underrated greatness of Jayson Tatum: Consistency over flash</h2>



In a league that often celebrates the most spectacular moments or record-breaking feats, Jayson Tatum’s brand of consistent excellence can sometimes go overlooked. With five consecutive All-Star appearances and three straight All-NBA First Team nods, Tatum has firmly established himself among the NBA’s top players. Yet, as his coach and teammates noted, his steady brilliance is sometimes taken for granted.



Tatum’s situation is reminiscent of past NBA greats like Tim Duncan and Kevin Durant in their prime. Their dependability and team-first mentality often kept them out of the spotlight despite their pivotal roles in their teams’ success. Tatum’s ability to deliver in clutch moments while maintaining a team-oriented focus sets him apart in an era dominated by individualistic accolades.



As the Celtics continue their championship pursuit, Tatum’s unwavering consistency and leadership will be critical. Perhaps as the season unfolds, the broader league will take notice of a player who, without unnecessary fanfare, continues to define what it means to be a superstar in today’s NBA.

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Last Thursday, the Boston Celtics suffered their toughest loss of the season, falling 117-108 to the Chicago Bulls at TD Garden. The game was marred by controversial officiating that left Boston frustrated. Joe Mazzulla, visibly upset, argued with officials late in the game and later joked that his remarks were nothing more than holiday greetings. However, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> took a harsher view of his behavior.



“Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla has been fined $35,000 for aggressively pursuing and directing inappropriate language toward a game official,” the league said in a statement released Saturday via X (formerly Twitter). ”It was announced today by Joe Dumars, Executive Vice President and head of Basketball Operations. The incident occurred after the Celtics’ 117-108 loss to the Chicago Bulls on Dec. 19 at TD Garden.”



The heated exchange took place during the final quarter of the game. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics">Celtics</a> had closed the gap to within one possession with over seven minutes remaining when Mazzulla got into an argument with official Justin Van Duyne, resulting in a technical foul. Moments later, Jaylen Brown’s protest earned him another technical foul, allowing the Bulls to extend their lead and secure the victory.



After the game, a visibly angry <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/joe-mazzulla">Mazzulla</a> had to be escorted off the court by his assistants. However, during the post-game press conference, when asked about his exchange with the officials, he offered an unexpected response. “I wasn’t sure I was going to see them before the holiday,” he joked. “So just a Merry Christmas, a happy holiday.”



While the remark may have been an attempt to defuse tension, the NBA was not amused. The $35,000 fine serves as a reminder of the league’s strict stance on professionalism toward officials.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241221_BUS_297766_Mazzulla-Brown-1024x576_125da5d1.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics is greeted by head coach Joe Mazzulla as he heads to the bench at Madison Square Garden on October 25, 2023 in New York City." class="wp-image-276308" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Brown-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Brown-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Brown-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Brown-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Brown-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Brown-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Brown-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Brown.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics is greeted by head coach Joe Mazzulla as he heads to the bench at Madison Square Garden on October 25, 2023 in New York City. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Jaylen Brown defends Mazzulla</h2>



Jaylen Brown came to Mazzulla’s defense in a recent press conference, criticizing the officiating during the game. “Joe didn’t say anything to deserve a tech,” Brown stated, suggesting that the technical fouls were unwarranted.



Brown also recounted his own exchange with the officials, accusing them of overreacting. “I come and shake all the refs’ hands because I speak for my team. I’m allowed to talk. So when I tell (the referee) ‘You called a tech for no reason,’ and you say, ‘If you say it again, I’m calling another tech,’ then I say it again, and you call a tech, you just threatened your whistle as a threat. That’s not a part of the game either, and it’s (expletive).”


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<h2>Celtics look for redemption</h2>



The Celtics won’t have to wait long for a rematch. Just 48 hours after the controversial loss, they’ll face the Bulls again on Saturday night, this time at the United Center in Chicago. Boston will look to bounce back from Thursday’s frustrating defeat and continue their strong start to the season.

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Dan Hurley and the UConn Huskies keep going strong. The toughest team in the nation put on a strong outing vs. the Xavier Musketeers, who made life difficult with a 94-89 overtime loss.



This was their first win in a home conference opener in the past 13 seasons, which only speaks volumes about how tough it is to win in this kind of setting, even for a top-notch program.



Moreover, it seems like the Huskies may have had a secret weapon. Apparently, Boston Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla paid them a little visit in the locker room, and coach Hurley was quite thankful for it.



<h2>Dan Hurley thanks Joe Mazzulla for locker room visit</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Shoutout to Joe for showing up. I think he enjoyed it. He likes Big East basketball,” Hurley told Joe Arruda.</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241219_BUS_296603_joemazzullaceltics-1024x576_fd16d3f4.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-137617" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/06/joemazzullaceltics-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/06/joemazzullaceltics-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/06/joemazzullaceltics-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/06/joemazzullaceltics-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/06/joemazzullaceltics.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Joe Mazzulla coach of the Boston Celtics</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Hurley talks about Mazzulla’s philosophy </h2>



Even so, as much as they’re both champions in their own craft, Hurley admits Mazzulla’s offensive approach isn’t what he’s looking for with the Huskies, who are more of a defensive-oriented team:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“I know Joe’s got a different mentality. He wants to be an aggressor with the Celtics this year,” Dan Hurley said. “We look at it in a way where we’re gonna defend it with our lives. Somebody’s gonna have to rip it out of our lifeless hands this year.”</blockquote>


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At the end of the day, coaches need to adapt to their players and not the other way around. There’s no correct way to win a championship, and getting the job done is all that matters.

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After winning the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> title in the 2023-24 season, the Boston Celtics have entered the 2024-25 campaign with a commanding 17-4 record, firmly positioning themselves as serious contenders in the Eastern Conference. Head coach Joe Mazzulla, known for his innovative coaching methods, recently unveiled the approach he believes is key to keeping his players motivated and ready for every game.



Speaking at a press conference following Boston’s recent victory over the Miami Heat, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/joe-mazzulla">Mazzulla</a> explained why he chooses not to inform his players in advance about whether or not they will be playing. “I just feel like if you give a guy an idea if he’s going to or not going to, it changes his preparation on a daily basis,” he shared.



By withholding that information, Mazzulla aims to keep his players mentally sharp and focused, regardless of their role in any given game. “They have to be ready to go and they got to treat every single game as if they are going to impact winning,” he added. “I want our guys to come into the arena every day thinking that their process is important towards winning… By not telling them, it allows them to treat every single day as if it’s the most important day and they do a great job of embracing that.”



Although Joe has only been a head coach for a short time, his success with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics">Celtics</a> has already earned him recognition across the league. His unconventional methods, coupled with his strong conviction, have proven effective in fostering a culture of preparation and accountability. “You gotta be ready to go at anytime. If you’re only ready to go because you know you’re going to play, then that doesn’t really help your process,”



The coach later emphasized that his approach not only ensures the team stays focused and motivated for every game but also prepares them to handle any last-minute changes or unexpected situations that arise throughout the season. “It’s important because there’s just a lot of unpredictability over the course of the season,” Mazzulla explained.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241204_BUS_286435_Mazzulla-Brown-1024x576_1d167ed0.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics is greeted by head coach Joe Mazzulla as he heads to the bench at Madison Square Garden on October 25, 2023 in New York City." class="wp-image-276308" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Brown-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Brown-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Brown-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Brown-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Brown-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Brown-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Brown-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Brown.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics is greeted by head coach Joe Mazzulla as he heads to the bench at Madison Square Garden on October 25, 2023 in New York City. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Bad news for the Celtics</h2>



Joe Mazzulla will face a significant challenge for Wednesday’s game against the Detroit Pistons at TD Garden, with the absence of Jayson Tatum. The Celtics’ star forward was officially ruled out due to right patella tendinopathy. This comes at a particularly unfortunate time, as Tatum had just been named the NBA’s Eastern Conference Player of the Month.



However, Tatum won’t be the only key player missing for the Celtics. Jrue Holiday, who has been dealing with left knee tendinopathy, will also be unavailable, as he was in the Celtics’ win over the Heat on Monday. This continues a troubling trend of injuries affecting Boston’s roster, with several players battling physical issues in recent weeks.


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While the team has been able to maintain strong performances despite these setbacks, the mounting injury list is certainly something that Mazzulla will need to monitor closely. The absence of Tatum and Holiday for Wednesday’s game represents a major hurdle for the Celtics, who will need other players to step up if they are to maintain their dominance in the Eastern Conference.

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The Cleveland Cavaliers entered Tuesday’s <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> Cup opening-round game with an undefeated 15-0 record to start the season. However, their streak came to an end at TD Garden, where the Boston Celtics showcased their strength and winning mentality in a hard-fought 120-117 victory. After the game, head coach Joe Mazzulla sent a bold message to the rest of the league.



When asked about Cleveland’s physical approach, which targeted <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics">Boston</a>’s stars Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum, Mazzulla praised his players for their resilience. “I thought both of them handled the pressure and the physicality well,” Mazzulla said. “I hope teams continue to be physical, ’cause it just gets us reps.”



Tatum led the way for Boston, scoring 33 points, grabbing 12 rebounds, and dishing out 7 assists in 38 minutes. Brown contributed 17 points, 3 rebounds, and 8 assists. “They had a great balance of handling the pressure, driving to attack, driving to get to the free throw line… they handled it really well,” Mazzulla added.



The head coach also explained the strategic adjustments that were key to defeating the Cavaliers. “We lulled the offense. We played a little bit slower, but it was more important to get to the proper spacing,” he said. “It was more important to get our drive-and-kick reads.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241120_BUS_276304_Mazzulla-Tatum-1024x576_dc1cc859.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics speaks with head coach Joe Mazzulla during game one of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Miami Heat at TD Garden on May 17, 2023 in Boston, Massachusetts." class="wp-image-273962" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Tatum.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics speaks with head coach Joe Mazzulla during game one of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Miami Heat at TD Garden on May 17, 2023 in Boston, Massachusetts. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Mazzulla’s concern</h2>



Despite the victory, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/joe-mazzulla">Joe Mazzulla</a> expressed concern about the team’s ability to sustain its high level of intensity over the course of the season. When asked whether the Celtics’ effort was a natural evolution or driven by the importance of the game, Mazzulla replied, “If you ask the players, I’m sure they would say it’s a little bit of both.”



He elaborated: “To me, I care more about, can we do it again in 72 hours? Can we do it again a month from now, a month later? Understanding we’re not gonna be at our best all the time, but the most important thing over the course is can we just chip away and do that?” And then Mazzulla added: “It’s great that we did it tonight, it showed the level that we can get to, but we just got to do it over and over again.”


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<h2>Looking ahead</h2>



After their big win, the Celtics will have three days to rest before facing the Washington Wizards on Friday at Capital One Arena, another NBA Cup opening-round matchup. Meanwhile, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cleveland-cavaliers">Cavaliers</a> will need to regroup quickly. Kenny Atkinson’s team is set to host the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse, as they look to bounce back from their first loss of the season.

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Joe Mazzulla joined the Boston Celtics as an assistant coach in 2019 and, following a brief stint as interim head coach, was officially promoted to the top position in early 2023. He wasted no time in proving his leadership abilities, guiding the Celtics to the 2023-24 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> title. Mazzulla’s success can be attributed not only to his basketball knowledge but also to his relentless effort, attention to detail, and fierce competitiveness—qualities that are evident in his dynamic with Charlotte Hornets head coach Charles Lee.



Lee, who served as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/joe-mazzulla">Mazzulla</a>‘s assistant in Boston, departed over the summer to take on the head coaching role with the Hornets. Upon his departure, Mazzulla made his stance clear: “I told Charles when he left, ‘I’m not talking to you during the season. I’m not waving to you at the national anthem. I’m not doing that,’” Mazzulla admitted during a recent press conference.



Joe didn’t stop there, candidly sharing the harsh words he had for his former assistant. “You’re an enemy,” he told Lee when the latter decided to join <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/charlotte-hornets">Charlotte</a>. This declaration exemplifies Mazzulla’s fiercely competitive spirit and his uncompromising approach to the game: in basketball, personal relationships take a backseat to the ultimate goal of winning, no matter the sacrifices required.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241116_BUS_273959_Mazzulla-Lee-1024x576_e68b5418.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Assistant coach Charles Lee (L) of the Boston Celtics speaks to head coach Joe Mazzulla during the third quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game Two of the Eastern Conference Second Round Playoffs at TD Garden on May 09, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts." class="wp-image-273963" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Lee-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Lee-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Lee-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Lee-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Lee-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Lee-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Lee-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Mazzulla-Lee.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Assistant coach Charles Lee (L) of the Boston Celtics speaks to head coach Joe Mazzulla during the third quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game Two of the Eastern Conference Second Round Playoffs at TD Garden on May 09, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Lee’s reaction</h2>



Despite Mazzulla’s direct words, Charles Lee sought to bridge the gap during their first meeting as opposing head coaches this season. According to Mazzulla, Lee made an unexpected gesture: “He breached NBA rules and came into the assistant coach locker room and forced me to give him a hug,” Mazzulla revealed. When a reporter asked if Joe appreciated the hug, his response was unequivocal: “No.”



Mazzulla went on to accuse Lee of playing mind games, suggesting the gesture was an attempt to disrupt his focus. “That could easily be a psychological tell that knocks you off your game competitively. So he knew what he was doing,” the Celtics head coach said, showcasing his competitive mindset.


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<h2>Celtics had the last laugh</h2>



Whether or not Lee’s actions were meant to rattle Mazzulla, they had no impact on the Celtics’ performance. Boston defeated Charlotte in both matchups this season. On November 1, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics">Celtics</a> claimed a commanding 124-109 victory at the Spectrum Center, and they followed it up with a 113-103 win the next day, also in North Carolina. For Mazzulla, the results reinforce his approach to the game: when it comes to basketball, the only relationship that matters is the one with victory.

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