Boston Celtics Head Coach Joe Mazzulla Takes Criticism to Heart
In a recent interview on ESPN’s “NBA Today,” Celtics alumni Kendrick Perkins expressed his concerns about the team’s playing style. Perkins emphasized the need for more post-ups from the wings and guards, highlighting the importance of finding a balance between inside and outside scoring. He suggested that relying solely on three-point shooting could be problematic if the shots aren’t falling. Perkins believes that the Celtics have the talent to execute more post-up plays and should start practicing them immediately.
Perkins’ comments caught the attention of Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla, who acknowledged the need for improvement in this area. When asked about the team’s post-up frequency this season, Mazzulla admitted that they could do better. However, he later clarified that his initial response was meant in jest. In reality, the Celtics rank second in the league in post-up frequency and first in efficiency.
Mazzulla’s lighthearted response to the criticism showcases his playful nature. It’s clear that he takes feedback seriously and is always looking for ways to enhance the team’s performance. With the Celtics’ success against the Nets, Mazzulla’s approach seems to be paying off.
Celtics’ Offensive Success and All-Star Game Snubs Cause Controversy
In a shocking turn of events, Kendrick Perkins has made objectively incorrect statements about the Boston Celtics. Despite Perkins’ claims, the Celtics’ reliance on three-pointers has proven to be successful. According to NBA.com, the team scores an impressive 120.4 points per 100 possessions, ranking them second in offensive rating, just behind the Pacers.
Looking ahead to the 2024 All-Star Game, the Celtics will have two players representing the team: Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. However, it’s worth noting that two other players, Kristaps Porzingis and Derrick White, narrowly missed the cut, even after the Eastern Conference had two injury replacements.
Expressing his frustration, Joe Mazzulla criticized the league for not including Porzingis and White in the All-Star Game. Mazzulla emphasized the importance of winning and questioned the league’s priorities. He praised Porzingis and White for their commitment to playing the right way and valuing victory above all else.
Interestingly, Mazzulla has not been immune to criticism himself. After the Celtics’ loss to the Nuggets on January 20, Kendrick Perkins took a jab at Mazzulla’s coaching style. Perkins referred to two versions of Mazzulla, one who focuses on three-point shooting and looks great when it works, and another who appears lost. Perkins even made a bizarre analogy, suggesting that if Mazzulla’s brain were placed in a bird, it would fly backward.
Prior to a game against the Pacers, Mazzulla was asked about the Celtics’ injuries, including those of Porzingis, Al Horford, and Luke Kornet. In a lighthearted response, Mazzulla joked about his own coaching abilities, referring to himself as a “bird brain.”
As the Celtics continue their season, it remains to be seen how their three-point heavy approach will fare. Meanwhile, the controversy surrounding the All-Star Game snubs adds another layer of intrigue to the team’s journey.
According to the Source heavy.com