The Boston Celtics players are experiencing a change in the coaching approach by Joe Mazzulla this offseason.
The Boston Celtics will have to lower their expectations compared to the last few years heading into the new NBA season.
After Jayson Tatum tore his Achilles tendon in the playoffs, it became clear that the Celtics’ championship window, with their squad at the time, had closed.
So the Celtics’ focus turned to moving pieces in order to cut down on their wage bill and acquire more young stars to develop.
With a new-look squad, it appears Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla has adopted a new coaching approach.
Photo by Al Bello/Getty ImagesJoe Mazzulla building strong relationships with everyone on Boston Celtics roster
Boston Celtics star Xavier Tillman spoke about the approach he has seen from Joe Mazzulla during the preseason training camp.
Tillman revealed that Mazzulla is doing his best to improve his relationship with all the players and ensure that all the players are ready and motivated to get the season started and play well.
“He’s been more intentional, relationship-wise, with each and every player.
“He’s taking it upon himself to make sure that everybody feels valued, everybody feels appreciated, and everybody is mentally ready to go to work each and every day.”
Xavier Tillman said Joe Mazzulla has been even more intentional in establishing relationships this year:
“He’s taking it upon himself to make sure that everybody feels valued, everybody feels appreciated, and everybody is mentally ready to go to work.” pic.twitter.com/ynm5IuI2vn
— Noa Dalzell 🏀 (@NoaDalzell) October 14, 2025
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Boston Celtics must prioritize developing young stars
With Jayson Tatum out, the Celtics are presented with an opportunity to build up their younger stars. In particular, stars like Payton Pritchard must be the focus.
Pritchard will be a Celtics starter next season, earning the honor in the aftermath of Jrue Holiday’s departure.
If Pritchard can establish himself as a championship-level point guard, the Celtics will be even stronger when Tatum returns, whether that be toward the end of this season or in the 2026-27 season.
The Celtics can strengthen their roster this season and come back and compete for a championship the following year.