"In the most recent edition of NBA.com's annual GM survey, the Celtics only received one vote to finish in the top four of the Eastern Conference among the 29 other general managers. That's obviously a major step back from last season, when 97 percent of the general managers picked the Celtics to win the conference and 83 percent of them picked Boston to repeat as champions."
"In his first few seasons as the head coach of the Celtics, Mazzulla has been known for embracing 3-pointers and an analytical offensive approach. But general managers find his defensive work and motivating skills to be his most impressive traits, at least relative to his peers."
"Mazzulla received the third-most votes for the coach who is the best motivator and manager of people, along with Steve Kerr (14 percent). Only the Heat's Erik Spoelstra (28 percent) and the Rockets' Ime Udoka (24 percent) received more votes."
NBA general managers expect the Boston Celtics to take a major step back in 2025-26 because Jayson Tatum is expected to miss the majority of the season. Only one of 29 general managers projected the Celtics to finish in the Eastern Conference top four, a sharp decline from the prior season when 97 percent picked Boston to win the conference and 83 percent predicted a repeat championship. General managers were incorrect last season as the Celtics lost to the Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals. Joe Mazzulla received significant recognition for motivational ability and defensive scheming in GM voting.
Read at Boston.com
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