Pacers at Celtics: Players Say Mazzulla's 'Controlled Madness' Style is Paying Off
Horford Fuels Boston's Third Straight Trip to ECF
The top-seeded Boston Celtics continued their charge towards the NBA Finals on Wednesday, defeating the shorthanded Cleveland Cavaliers to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals (ECF) for the third consecutive season. The Celtics' success this postseason can be attributed in part to the implementation of a new coaching style under first-year head coach Joe Mazzulla, which players have described as "controlled madness."
Mazzulla, who took over the reins of the Celtics in February following the suspension of Ime Udoka, has emphasized a more free-flowing and unpredictable offensive approach that encourages player movement and improvisation. This style, while unorthodox, has proven to be effective, as the Celtics have averaged 116.3 points per game in the playoffs, good for second in the league.
Center Al Horford has been a key beneficiary of Mazzulla's system, posting impressive numbers in the playoffs. In Game 5 against the Cavaliers, Horford scored 23 points, grabbed 11 rebounds, and dished out 6 assists, leading the Celtics to a decisive 109-99 victory. Horford's performance was emblematic of the Celtics' overall team success, as they shot 50.0% from the field and dished out 29 assists compared to just 12 turnovers.
As the Celtics prepare to face the Miami Heat in the ECF, they will look to continue their momentum and take one step closer to a potential NBA championship. The Heat, led by Jimmy Butler, present a formidable challenge, but the Celtics are confident that their unique style of play can overcome any obstacle.
Conclusion
The Boston Celtics' success in the 2023 NBA playoffs is a testament to the adaptability and resilience of their players and coaching staff. Under Joe Mazzulla's guidance, the Celtics have embraced a style of play that is both entertaining and effective. As they face the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals, the Celtics will look to prove that their "controlled madness" approach can lead them all the way to the NBA Finals.
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