Celtics Make Joe Mazzulla Decision After Loss to Knicks
The Boston Celtics' 2024-25 season, which began with high hopes of defending their NBA championship, concluded in disappointment following a second-round playoff exit against the New York Knicks. Despite a strong 61-win regular season under head coach Joe Mazzulla, the team faced significant challenges in the postseason, including critical injuries and a series of collapses.
Notably, Boston lost back-to-back 20-point leads in Games 1 and 2, and ultimately fell in Game 6 after trailing by as many as 41 points. The most devastating blow came in Game 4 when star forward Jayson Tatum suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon, effectively ending the Celtics' hopes. Tatum had been instrumental in the team's success, and his absence was deeply felt.
Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0)© Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Additionally, Jaylen Brown played through a knee injury, while Kristaps Porzingis battled an undiagnosed illness that severely impacted his performance. Other key players, including Jrue Holiday and Sam Hauser, also dealt with injuries, leaving the team compromised.
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In the wake of the season's end, some fans called for the dismissal of Mazzulla as head coach, questioning his ability to lead the team through adversity. However, Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens expressed unwavering support for Mazzulla during his end-of-season press conference, making it clear the team has made the decision to stick with him as head coach.
"We're lucky to have Joe," Stevens said. "We're lucky to have the staff we have."
Mazzulla's tenure with the Celtics has been marked by significant achievements. After serving as an assistant coach under Ime Udoka, he was promoted to head coach and led the team to their 18th NBA Championship in the 2023-24 season.
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The Celtics face an offseason filled with uncertainty. With Tatum expected to miss the entire 2025-26 season due to his injury, the team may need to consider roster adjustments and financial strategies to remain competitive.
Related: Nuggets' Aaron Gordon Had Words for Steph Curry and Jayson Tatum on Sunday
Related: Celtics' Jrue Holiday Breaks Silence on NBA Future After Trade Report
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