INDIANAPOLIS — While the Boston Celtics experienced an unusual Christmas without a game for the first time in a decade, they maintained a keen interest in the NBA by watching the exciting matchup between the New York Knicks and the Cleveland Cavaliers. Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla and star player Jaylen Brown took advantage of the day to scout other teams and their playing styles as Boston prepares for a challenging five-game road trip.
Brown expressed disappointment at the Celtics not being invited to participate in the Christmas Day lineup, typically showcasing the league’s elite teams. With injuries to key player Jayson Tatum and significant roster changes aimed at a rebuilding year, Boston’s omission might not have come as a surprise. Nevertheless, the Celtics have proved competitive, entering Friday with an admirable 18-11 record, ranking ninth in the league.
“It’s a little disappointing,” Brown commented on missing the holiday games. “I feel like the better teams are usually the ones playing on Christmas, and I feel like we’re one of the better teams.”
Mazzulla seized the opportunity to observe the games, noting lessons to be learned from the teams competing on the holiday stage. He reflected on the Cavaliers’ loss to the Knicks, where they squandered a significant 17-point lead during the fourth quarter, emphasizing that the game’s dynamics often hinge on earlier shortcomings, such as turnovers and missed scoring chances. Mazzulla stated, “It’s a great learning day to sit back and watch why teams are successful and what goes into the process of winning.”
In related developments, the Indiana Pacers have faced challenges this season, plagued by player injuries and roster adjustments. Coach Rick Carlisle recently retracted initial calls for a flagrant foul against Neemias Queta after reviewing the incident that left Isaiah Jackson sidelined with a concussion. Carlisle acknowledged that while a foul was missed, it was not intentional, stating the importance of context in such situations.
As the Pacers continue to grapple with injuries to key players, they made roster moves, waiving sharpshooter Garrison Mathews and former second overall pick James Wiseman, while signing center Micah Potter to bolster their lineup as they deal with significant player absences.
The Celtics look to build on their successful record and will aim to harness the insights gained from watching their peers, as they embark on their road trip with renewed determination. Brown’s sentiment reflects a drive within the team to reclaim their place among the league’s elite, setting the stage for an exciting second half of the season.