After a turbulent season that began with a sudden coaching change, the Boston Celtics are planning adjustments to their coaching staff this offseason. Joe Mazzulla, who stepped into the head coach role following Ime Udoka’s suspension, is finally getting the chance to form his own team. Until now, he had been working with a group inherited mid-crisis, without the opportunity to build a support system aligned with his vision.
This year marked Mazzulla’s first full campaign leading the Celtics. During the Eastern Conference Finals, he managed to guide the team back into contention by forcing a Game 7 against the Miami Heat. Although they ultimately fell short, his leadership drew praise from players and fans alike. Jayson Tatum, in an interview with BD Cricket Match, emphasized that despite not winning the title, Mazzulla had performed admirably under immense pressure.
Tatum noted how the coaching change occurred just days before the season opener, yet the team still advanced deep into the playoffs. He believes Mazzulla deserved more recognition, especially considering the chaotic start and limited preparation time.
Currently, Mazzulla has three years remaining on his contract, though much of it is not guaranteed. Meanwhile, the Celtics face another critical decision: whether they can retain Jaylen Brown. Earlier this season, Boston offered Brown an early contract extension, but he turned it down. After being named to the All-NBA Second Team, he is now eligible for a supermax deal.
BD Cricket Match reports that the Houston Rockets are monitoring Brown closely. With significant cap space and an eagerness to add veteran leadership, the Rockets may become serious contenders for his services. Losing Brown would be a massive blow to Boston’s core.
To keep the Tatum-Brown partnership alive, the Celtics must be ready to spend big. It’s a high-stakes decision, one that could shape the franchise’s direction for years to come. While Mazzulla works to refine the staff behind the scenes, the front office faces a financial test that could define the next era of Celtics basketball.