The Boston Celtics enter the postseason with a healthy Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Brown is described as an MVP-caliber player who is fully healthy after knee issues last season.
First Round Challenge Against Philadelphia
The Celtics’ first-round matchup is against the 76ers. This series is the latest edition of one of the NBA’s biggest rivalries. The 76ers were built to compete for a championship but have dealt with injuries. Joel Embiid’s injuries and Paul George’s subpar play have been a problem for Philadelphia. Paul George also faced a suspension. The Celtics, however, have full respect for the 76ers. They are aware of the effectiveness of guard Tyrese Maxey and Philadelphia’s two wins in the season series.
Mazzulla’s Perspective on the Playoffs
Joe Mazzulla is coming off perhaps the best coaching job of his career. He said the Celtics have a responsibility to be in the playoffs. Mazzulla added that the Celtics know they have to be at their best, and they know their opponents will be at their best too. He considers Philadelphia a great team and anticipates a tough test. He feels good about his team. They are great players, great people, and they care about winning.
Celtics’ Playoff History and Motivation
The Celtics have reached the playoffs for 12 straight years. Only three times in that span have they not advanced past the first round. There is a sense of motivation in Boston. This is partially due to the unexpected return of Tatum and a surprising season. A group of unheralded players combined for 56 wins and picked up the No. 2 seed. This occurred despite projections that the Knicks, Cavaliers, and Magic would finish ahead of the Celtics.
Potential for an Impressive Playoff Run
This has a chance to be one of the more impressive playoff runs in club history considering the circumstances.
- Healthy Jayson Tatum
- MVP-caliber Jaylen Brown
- Challenging first-round matchup
Mazzulla said the team wants to be at its best by Game 1 but also wants to be in the mind frame of however long it takes to win the series. He feels good about his team.