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Mazzulla's Unconventional Celtics Shock NBA
27 May
Summary
- Joe Mazzulla wins 2025-26 NBA Coach of the Year award.
- Celtics defied expectations, winning 56 games after key player injuries.
- Mazzulla expressed personal disdain for the Coach of the Year award.
Joe Mazzulla has earned the 2025-26 NBA Coach of the Year award, ending a 46-year drought for the Boston Celtics. This recognition comes despite Mazzulla's vocal disinterest in the award itself, which he has described as "stupid" and belonging to the players and staff.
The Celtics were predicted to be a Play-In team with a projected win total of 41.5, especially after Jayson Tatum's Achilles injury. Key veterans were traded, leaving a young core and limited resources. However, Mazzulla's unique coaching philosophy, emphasizing 3-point offense and possession dominance, propelled the team to 56 wins.
Despite losing in the first round of the playoffs to the Philadelphia 76ers, Mazzulla's regular-season performance was exceptional. The Celtics ranked highly in rebounding and defense while minimizing turnovers, showcasing the impact of unheralded players who became key contributors under his guidance.
