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Celtics Coach Stubborn? Rotations Under Fire in Playoff Collapse
2 May
Summary
- Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla has maintained rigid starting lineups throughout the playoffs.
- The team's best lineup in Game 6 saw positive results against starters.
- Boston faces elimination after blowing a 3-1 series lead.
Coach Joe Mazzulla's decision to maintain consistent starting lineups and rotations throughout the playoffs is facing significant criticism. The Celtics began all six first-round games with the same quintet, a lineup that has performed poorly. This rigid approach contrasts with Mazzulla's flexibility during the regular season, where different players earned significant playing time.
Despite the struggles of his usual starters, Mazzulla has largely kept players like Josh Minott and Jordan Walsh sidelined. However, a surprising lineup featuring Payton Pritchard, Jordan Walsh, and others achieved a positive plus-minus against the opponent's starters late in Game 6. This performance has fueled debate about whether Mazzulla's stubbornness with rotations is contributing to the Celtics' current predicament.
The Celtics are now on the verge of becoming the 14th team in NBA history to squander a 3-1 series lead. While not solely attributable to coaching decisions, the team's precarious position has intensified calls for Mazzulla to implement strategic changes, particularly with his rotations, as the series concludes.
