The consensus about NBA pre-season games is that they are necessary so that teams can have a feel of their chemistry and preparations for the new season. They can also study the tendencies of their opponents. Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla, known for his uncanny takes on basketball related matters, even about life, has a different view of it.
The Celtics are currently 2-1 in the pre-season and although they found success in their latest outings, Mazzulla still does not think these pre-tourney assignments are necessary for them.
“I’d rather have no preseason games and practice every day. I hate preseason games,” he said according to Celtics reporter Jay King.
What does Mazzulla specifically hate about it? The load the players have to deal with.
“At the end of the day, it’s a preseason game. To me, you come in here and practice, and you work,” he added.
“The idea is to try to make the preseason game as close to practice as you can. Because you’re always going through things — who’s on a minutes restriction, who may be sitting out, trying to save yourselves for the regular season, all those things which are important.”
Boston Celtics’ upcoming schedule
Godo thing for Mazzulla, they only have one remaining pre-season game and that will be against the Toronto Raptors to whom they lost four days ago.
Their last game was against last year’s Eastern Conference no. 1 team Cleveland Cavaliers and they passed it with flying colors. Their projected starters – Jaylen Brown, Chris Boucher, Sam Hauser, and Derrick White – made a good account of themselves despite the limited minutes. It should be noted though that Cavs’ core sat out that game.
Celtics opening game will be against the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday next week.
Mazzulla wil be coaching a roster completely different from what he had in the last three seasons with the departure of their starting members. Superstar Jayson Tatum will also be out for a lengthy time although there are reports he might return earlier than expected.
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