The Boston Celtics are riding high in the 2024-25 season after securing an emphatic 108-89 victory over the Miami Heat. Jaylen Brown’s explosive 29-point performance led the way for the team. While the Celtics’ stars shone bright, much of the credit for the team’s success stems from Joe Mazzulla’s unconventional approach to building a championship-winning culture.
Joe Mazzulla’s philosophy came under the spotlight during Boston’s championship run last season, where his focus on fostering preparation and adaptability in every player, regardless of their role, became evident. The coach demonstrated this principle again on Monday, turning to second-year wing Jordan Walsh and Drew Peterson in a game that featured an injury-depleted Celtics lineup.
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. I want our guys to treat every single day as if they’re going to impact winning.
Joe Mazzulla explained postgame
Joe Mazzulla on why he doesn’t tell players they’re going to play in advance:
“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.”
“If you’re only ready to go because you know you’re gonna play, that… pic.twitter.com/rdGQPdXBvM
— Noa Dalzell 🏀 (@NoaDalzell) December 3, 2024
This mindset has been pivotal for Boston. By fostering an environment where every player is ready to contribute, Mazzulla has ensured that the Celtics can overcome adversity and maintain their competitive edge. The philosophy paid dividends last season, with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown anchoring a cohesive unit that claimed the NBA Championship alongside Mazzulla’s weird tactics.
This philosophy was especially visible last season when Joe Mazzulla called upon Payton Pritchard during the playoffs to take on extended playing time after seeing the back of the team’s rotation for much of the year. Pritchard made the most of the opportunity, shining for the Celtics during the NBA Finals, and has since become an integral part of the team’s rotation this season.
Joe Mazzulla reveals new lineup strategy with return of Kristaps Porzingis
With Kristaps Porzingis returning to the Celtics’ lineup, Joe Mazzulla hinted at further evolution in the team’s defensive and offensive strategies. Porzingis, who missed significant time during Boston’s championship run, showcased his value in his season debut against the Los Angeles Clippers.
His presence provided much-needed rim protection, defensive versatility, and floor spacing, addressing many of Boston’s lingering issues early this season.
We were able to get back some of our defensive versatility, also a little bit of rim protection, more physicality on the ball because he’s back there. Offensively, he just really helps with spacing. It was good to have him back.
Joe Mazzulla said following last week’s win
Porzingis has proven to be a game-changer for Boston. His elite shooting from beyond the arc complements Boston’s core, while his defensive presence anchors the paint. In the 60 games he’s played for the Celtics, Porzingis has averaged 20.1 points, 7.2 rebounds, and nearly two blocks per game.
His impact goes beyond stats, allowing the Celtics to execute Joe Mazzulla’s versatile five-out offensive system while still maintaining their defensive integrity. Porzingis’ role is even more critical as the Celtics navigate a competitive Eastern Conference. Pairing him with the likes of Tatum, Brown, Derrick White, and Jrue Holiday offers a balance of scoring, spacing, and defense rarely seen in the league.
However, health remains the biggest question mark. Should Porzingis stay fit, Boston’s chances of repeating as champions become significantly higher.
