While some coaches have raised concerns about running up the score in NBA Cup games to boost point differential, the Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla embraces this aspect of the competition, according to Souichi Terada of MassLive.
Mazzulla demonstrated his approach on Friday when he called a timeout with just 1.4 seconds remaining to set up a three-pointer for Sam Hauser, which pushed the Celtics’ final margin of victory to nine points.
“I like it because this tournament and the point differential kind of eliminates the unwritten rules that you’re supposed to follow or not follow,” Mazzulla explained.
“Where in a normal situation, you wouldn’t do that. But in this one, you get to draw up a play and try to get better in that situation. So guys did a good job executing and we tried to extend the point differential as much as we could.”
Coach’s perspective highlights how the distinct format of the NBA Cup encourages teams to maximize every opportunity, including the strategic advantage of improving point differential.
By using these moments to practice execution and game management, Mazzulla views it as a chance for his team to grow and refine their skills.
Celtics Notes: Pritchard, White, Injuries, Mazzulla https://t.co/L0TV28nVcZ pic.twitter.com/VVvZQzL5LL
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) December 1, 2024
