SAN FRANCISCO — Just moments before the game started on Thursday night, Kristaps Porziņģis launched a three-pointer from just inside halfcourt, while his new teammate Al Horford, who also happens to be a former teammate, prepared for a matchup against his old team. This scene symbolized a new chapter for the Boston Celtics, who faced off against the Golden State Warriors and emerged victorious with a 121-110 win.
Amid speculations that Boston’s season might falter after significant offseason changes, the showing against the Warriors proved otherwise. The team’s head coach, Joe Mazzulla, emphasized the positive aspects of change, noting that while the Celtics lost familiar faces like Porziņģis, they gained new opportunities with their current roster.
Mazzulla spoke highly of Horford and Porziņģis, who both played key roles in the Celtics’ pursuit of the 2024 championship. He reflected on how changes can breathe new life into a team: “When you lose something, you usually gain something in return,” he said. This mindset is crucial as the Celtics have adjusted their strategies in response to their offseason overhaul, which saw them bid farewell to their entire frontcourt rotation, including Luke Kornet.
In the absence of star players like Jayson Tatum and Junior Holiday due to injury and trade, respectively, emerging talents Neemias Queta and Luka Garza have seized their chance to shine. However, Mazzulla ensured that they weren’t expected to replicate the performances of their predecessors. The team’s dynamic has evolved, emphasizing the strengths of the current squad.
Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and Payton Pritchard have risen to the occasion, contributing significantly to the team’s new identity. The Celtics, typically not known for their offensive rebounding, have made it a strength this season. Queta currently ranks 10th in offensive rebounding percentage, while Garza ranks third among players with fewer qualifying minutes. Their tenacity on the boards has been instrumental in allowing the Celtics to control possessions, which complements their high-octane offense that currently ranks second in efficiency.
The Celtics have shifted their approach this season, moving away from the double-big lineups that defined their past. While they have the option of deploying Nikola Vučević for size, they often choose a more versatile lineup that features an energetic wing as power forward. This new system has allowed them to protect the rim effectively, ranking third in points allowed in the paint per 100 possessions.
Before the acquisition of Vučević, posting up was rarely a part of their offense, but they now have the option to utilize him on the block, although the frequency may be less than when Porziņģis was part of the team.
Through their strong start to the season, with a record of 36-19, the Celtics have demonstrated adaptability and a readiness to embrace change. They are also working to incorporate Vučević into the mix while building on the foundation they have established.
Mazzulla praised the leadership of the veterans and the competitive nature and attention to detail instilled in the younger players. He stressed that despite the changes in personnel, the team’s mindset and competitive spirit remain unchanged.
During their game against the Warriors, the Celtics built a commanding lead, scoring 74 points in the first half. Payton Pritchard shone with 26 points, while Brown achieved a triple-double with 23 points, 15 rebounds, and 13 assists, showcasing the team’s newfound prowess.
Porziņģis, despite joining the Warriors, reflected positively on Boston’s journey, dismissing the views that predicted a disappointing season. “Some of the most pessimistic opinions were like, ‘this is a lottery team,’” he said, emphasizing the strength of the team’s culture and resilience.
Horford echoed Porziņģis’ sentiments, commending Coach Mazzulla and the coaching staff for effectively preparing the team, noting their success even when key players were sidelined in previous seasons.
This season, the Celtics are proving that change can lead to renewed vigor, bolstering hopes for a robust championship run. Their continued growth, adaptability, and commitment to excellence shine brightly within the evolving landscape of the NBA.