BOSTON CELTICS COACH CRITICIZES ALL-STAR SELECTIONS
Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla is not happy with the recent All-Star selections. Despite already sending two players to the All-Star Game, Mazzulla believes that Kristaps Porzingis and Derrick White deserved a spot as well. In a press conference on Tuesday, Mazzulla expressed his frustration, stating, “Clearly, winning is not important, huh? Winning’s not valued. How could you not put both of those guys in? Winning’s not the most important thing in the league.”
The absence of Joel Embiid and Julius Randle due to injuries opened up two spots on the Eastern Conference’s All-Star squad. Coaches ultimately chose Trae Young and Scottie Barnes to fill those positions. However, Mazzulla believes that Porzingis and White were snubbed. Despite this, he mentioned that both players are unfazed by the decision. “They’re two guys that get it,” Mazzulla said. “They want to play the right way and be a part of winning. At the end of the day, that’s really all that matters.”
Porzingis, who joined the Celtics this season, has been putting up impressive numbers. With an average of 20.4 points, seven rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game, Mazzulla believes Porzingis deserves recognition. On the other hand, White’s contributions may not be as statistically significant, but his defensive play has been crucial for the team. Mazzulla praised White for his role as a two-way player, especially in covering for Marcus Smart’s absence. White is currently averaging 15.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 4.8 assists this season.
Despite the controversy surrounding the All-Star selections, the Celtics have the best record in the league with 42 wins and 12 losses. However, Mazzulla will not be coaching the Eastern Conference All-Star team this year due to NBA rules. Doc Rivers of the Milwaukee Bucks will take on the coaching duties instead.
According to the Source sportsgossip.com