Joe Mazzulla might be reaching his breaking point with the Boston Celtics’ recent inconsistent play. The way he’s using his players suggests he’s not content with the team’s up-and-down performances.
In the recent game against the Philadelphia 76ers, both Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown played the entire second half. This isn’t the first time Tatum has logged heavy minutes lately, and it’s becoming a pattern. Mazzulla seems desperate to get back on the winning track, pushing his top players to their limits.
After the game, Mazzulla’s comments about math evening out and increased effort in the second half were telling. He deliberately chooses his words, and there’s meaning behind what he says. The coach is clearly searching for ways to win games and putting the onus on his players to bring the necessary effort.
It’s not just about motivation speeches or rah-rah moments. These are professional athletes, and at some point, they need to find their own drive. Mazzulla can’t be expected to give 100 motivational speeches a season. The players, especially stars like Tatum and Brown, need to bring consistent energy and effort.
Jaylen Brown’s postgame comments were particularly revealing. He admitted that it would have been easy to “call it a night, throw the subs in there and just come up with some kind of excuse to tell the media.” Instead, the team rallied, put in the effort, and persevered for the win. This candid admission gives insight into the team’s mindset during tough stretches.
The Concern About Al Horford
There’s growing concern about Al Horford’s role and effectiveness. In the game against the Sixers, Horford didn’t play at all in the second half. While there were no official statements about an injury, his absence raises questions about his ability to keep up with faster-paced lineups.
This situation might be the first real sign that age is catching up to Horford. As the playoffs approach, the Celtics will need to carefully manage his minutes and role to ensure he’s ready for the postseason grind.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Celtics’ recent performances and player management, tune into the Locked On Celtics podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Celtics Podcast:
• The math and effort behind the Celtics’ comeback against the Sixers
• Luke Kornet’s increased role and potential impact
• The challenges of motivating NBA players throughout a long season
