The Boston Celtics’ postseason opener on Sunday was a masterclass in preparation that made the widening gap between the East’s elite and the rest of the field more visible, thanks in large part to coach Joe Mazzulla.
In a 123-91 demolition of the Philadelphia 76ers, the Celtics proved why they have transformed from preseason long shots into the definitive favorites to represent the Eastern Conference. While the box score told the story of a blowout, one viral moment from the sideline captured the genius of head coach Mazzulla.
As Philadelphia prepared for a sideline out-of-bounds play in the second half, Joe Mazzulla was clearly diagnosing the Sixers’ strategy in real-time.
“Pin down. Watch the pin down, watch the pin down!” he shouted at his defense.