Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla opened his post-game remarks on May 3, 2026 by addressing the unexpected lineup he sent out for the decisive Game 7 that ended the team’s playoff run.
Mazzulla’s starting group differed from the one Boston used for most of the series. The coach told reporters he believed the change would give the Celtics “the best chance to match up” in the winner-take-all contest, though the club ultimately fell short.
Boston’s season concluded with the Game 7 loss, leaving questions about the rotation choices that opened the night. Mazzulla insisted the move was made after consulting his staff and reviewing match-up data.
“It was a strategic decision,” he said. “I own it.”
The defeat eliminates Boston from the postseason and shifts attention to the franchise’s offseason plans and Mazzulla’s approach moving forward.
Source: New York Post
