Mazzulla Should Learn From Dan Campbell
The Celtics can learn something from watching the NFC Championship game between the Detroit Lions and San Francisco 49ers. The Lions got ahead early in the game by their aggressive play calling and positive plays. The second half was a different story for both team. The 49ers were trailing by 17 points at home and capitalized on some questionable coaching decisions and mistakes. The aggressive style which worked so well and had the Lions one game away from the Super Bowl backfired. Going for it on 4th down like that have done so many time this season, turned into a touchdown on the other end to make it a 7 point game instead of being up 17 points. Then things fell apart, a fluke play, a fumble and another turnover with clock management issues.
Joe Mazzulla talked about Campbell saying he “loves that guy” and mentioned the trust and buy in by the players when it comes down to those decisions. He commended Campbell for sticking by what has worked all season. This is where the Celtics come into the conversation. The philosophy has been to shoot more 3 pointers. Its the reason why they have the best record in the league and one of the favorites to win the championship. There have been games where the shots from beyond the arc have struggled. The most recent examples have come at home against the Clippers and Pelicans. The green trailed by 17 points and went on to win 118-112.
The “Mazzulla Ball” philosophy has stood out in losses to the Pacers, Warriors and Nuggets. There have been times where taking too many 3=pointers has hurt the team instead of going to the basket. Something that has worked all year could change in the playoffs. The Celtics have gone to consecutive Eastern Conference finals but have only made it to the NBA finals once. It’s hard to get back there and something Campbell stressed to his players after the loss. Getting back there and winning the championship would validate Mazzulla.
