Sitting in the locker room, the Celtics players very wisely waited for Joe Mazzulla ends his speech. Then they all suddenly popped up to empty their water bottles on their coach. History to water, as is the custom, this first victory for the interim technician, replacing Ime Udoka.
A beautiful image that contrasts precisely with the case that has shaken the franchise in recent weeks. ” I am grateful for this relationship. These guys have been through a lot together, they are great players. It’s about working together. I appreciate their confidence and their commitment, but they also offer a lot of good things and we are moving forward », appreciate the coachwhich has just unlocked its victory counter.
Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown made it easy for him to win against the 76ers tonight. The two strong men of the team scored 35 points each. According to ESPN Stats & Info, this is the first time two teammates have scored so many in an opener since 1969, with Jerry West and Wilt Chamberlain.
“He wants us to help him as much as he helps us”
For the first, it was just a story of rhythm. ” We don’t necessarily call systems, and if we do, it’s sometimes a bit random. It’s about sacrificing yourself by cutting, making a teammate open, giving up a good shot for a very good shot, running in transition… “, enumerates Jayson Tatum whose team has outclassed Philadelphia in terms of points scored in counter-attack (24-2!).
Certainly the Celtics, whose hard core has been assembled for years, know each other by heart. But the confidence instilled by the technician propelled “head coach” is not foreign to this first success.
” He didn’t take credit for the night, but what I love and admire about Joe is that he’s so honest about the fact that he doesn’t know everything. He wants us to help him as much as he helps us. It’s like we’re in a relationship, we’re all on the same page to accomplish the same thing “, continues Jayson Tatum.
The challenge is to know how far Joe Mazzulla can take this boat, preventing this adventure from turning into a hassle. Until then, the person concerned can savor: It was a proud moment. It started with the Bill Russell ceremony, talking to the team about the legacy he left on and off the pitch, the responsibility we bear as a result, and building our own legacy. . […] I’m proud of the fans and the city of Boston, when they cheer you on it means you’re doing something right. »
