Title number 18 for the Boston Celtics was marked by dominance, but as the new season kicks off, things aren’t quite the same for first-time champion coach Joe Mazzulla. Speaking on the Locked on Celtics podcast, Mazzulla opened up about his outlook for the upcoming season.
Mazzulla hasn’t been shy about his determination to secure a repeat championship, which would make him the first coach since Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors to win back-to-back titles. With just six weeks until the season starts, he’s fully embracing the team’s role as the one to beat. Celtics fans can also take comfort in the fact that the team’s core remains intact. The addition of Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis last season was a masterstroke, though some concerns linger over the chemistry between Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, as rumors of tension between them circulate online.
One such rumor was fueled by an awkward moment where Brown was asked about Tatum’s Olympic struggles. Hopefully, there are no serious issues, as the Celtics will kick off their preseason against the Denver Nuggets in Abu Dhabi before starting the regular season on October 22 against Eastern Conference contenders, the New York Knicks.
Coach Mazzulla was quick to credit the Celtics’ front office for their success. While the coach and players have been key, he emphasized that the team’s dominance wouldn’t be possible without the strategic decisions made by the organization. Led by GM Brad Stevens, the front office has consistently positioned the Celtics with the best roster to contend for titles. With the strongest core in the league, it will take a significant effort from rivals, especially in the East, to derail their pursuit of a 19th championship.
However, uncertainty looms as rumors swirl about a potential sale of the team, with billionaire Jeff Bezos and a group linked to LeBron James reportedly interested. Even so, the Celtics are well-positioned to build a dynasty that could rival the Chicago Bulls or the Warriors.