As the Boston Celtics prepare for a decisive Game 7 against the Philadelphia 76ers, head coach Joe Mazzulla is keeping his focus on what has made his team special all season long: depth and fundamentals. But for the Celtics to advance, it's not just about who plays—it's about how they play.
"Do a better job of the margins," Mazzulla said during a conference call on Friday. "Whether it's offensive rebound, taking care of the ball, defensive rebounds—it's just regardless of who's playing, sticking to that process."
Throughout the regular season, Boston's ability to tap into its deep bench has been a defining strength, echoing the adaptable approach that carried the Indiana Pacers last year. While conventional postseason wisdom often favors tightening rotations and leaning on stars, Mazzulla has shown he's not afraid to go against the grain. In recent games against the Sixers, we've seen increased minutes from players like Jordan Walsh, Baylor Scheierman, and Luka Garza—a testament to the coach's trust in his full roster.
"I think you're always trying to look to take advantage of the roster you have," Mazzulla explained. "It's been a strength of our team throughout the regular season, something we tried to do throughout the first six games as well."
But depth alone won't win Game 7. For Mazzulla, the key is executing the ball-movement style that has defined Boston's success. "Regardless of who plays, just executing the game plan, executing their details," he emphasized. The Celtics need to stay true to their identity: sharing the ball, crashing the boards, and limiting turnovers. If they can adapt to Philadelphia's defensive schemes while sticking to their fundamentals, they'll have the edge when it matters most.
In a winner-take-all showdown, the Celtics' depth gives them options—but their commitment to playing "Boston Celtics ball" will decide the outcome.
