The Celtics have been unusually consistent this season, rarely having bad games, even as the regular season nears its end and they have little to play for before the playoffs.
According to the players, Joe Mazzulla has been influential in establishing this mindset.
Despite receiving criticism and doubt from outsiders about his ability to lead the team to a championship, Mazzulla's consistent efforts are deeply appreciated by the players in the locker room, especially after winning the Eastern Conference Coach of the Month award for the second time this season after leading the Celtics to a 12-4 record in March.
Al Horford praised Mazzulla for pushing the team to play consistently at a high level and finding new ways to challenge them, and giving him credit for their current position.
With the regular season almost over and the top seed in the NBA practically secured, Mazzulla has kept the team engaged.
Derrick White credited Mazzulla for keeping the team focused and not letting them become complacent.
Other coaches in the league have also acknowledged Mazzulla’s coaching ability, recognizing the pressure he faces in Boston and how well he has succeeded.
Oklahoma City coach Mark Daigneault praised Mazzulla for his composure and decision-making, and emphasized how challenging it is to play against the well-coached Celtics.
He has been one of the best coaches in the league, although his accomplishments have been somewhat overlooked due to the team's talent and experience, as well as where they are in their cycle.
Lee on the move?
The Hornets announced that Steve Clifford will step down as the team’s head coach after this season, and it is reported that Celtics assistant Charles Lee is among the top candidates to replace him.
Lee, who joined the Celtics coaching staff this season after working with the Hawks and Bucks, has been a great addition to the team.
“He has a winning mindset,” Mazzulla said. “He has worked with a highly skilled coach for a long time and won a championship, so he brings that experience. He has strong enthusiasm and positivity, along with valuable perspective. He has been around excellent players and a great coach, and having different perspectives can be helpful in various situations, so he has been great for us.”
Horford – who had Lee as a coach when he was with the Hawks – said Lee’s transition with the Celtics has been smooth.
“He’s simply a guy who cares about winning, and he communicates that to the team. He has been a significant part of our success here,” Horford said. “It's no secret that at some point, he will be in a position to become a head coach.”
Injury report
Thunder star and MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander missed his second consecutive game Wednesday against the Celtics with a quad injury. Jalen Williams also missed the game with an ankle injury.
Jaylen Brown, who is dealing with a left hand sprain that forced him out of Monday’s win against the Hornets, was cleared to play on Wednesday.
