Celtics navigate revamped roster, lean on work ethic amid 6-7 start
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Head coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledged that Boston’s 6-7 opening stretch feels more like “fulfillment” than fun as he guides a reshaped Celtics roster still intent on contending for championships.
Speaking before Saturday’s game, Mazzulla noted the organization’s shift toward younger, largely untested talent—a change accelerated by second-apron limitations and Jayson Tatum’s playoff Achilles tear. Four members of the 2024 title rotation departed over the summer, leaving the coach to maximize players who struggled to find roles elsewhere.
“I don’t enjoy being in the position we’re in,” Mazzulla said. “But I’m fulfilled because we know where we are, we know what we’re trying to get to, and we’re doing it with guys who have a competitive care factor that can pay dividends long term.”
Early bright spots include forwards Josh Minott, Jordan Walsh and 19-year-old wing Hugo Gonzalez. Mazzulla praised the group’s attention to detail: “There has been a care factor to the process—understanding roles, executing every night.”
Queta steps in at center with guidance from Tatum
With Kristaps Porziņģis now in Milwaukee and Al Horford coming off the bench, third-year big man Neemias Queta has started all 13 games. He ranks 12th league-wide in plus/minus and credits the sidelined Tatum for daily feedback.
“He’s been on me from the moment I got here,” Queta said. “He’s trying to help me figure out how to get teammates open and lead the way he can even though he can’t play right now.”
No G League plans for Gonzalez
Mazzulla dismissed the idea of assigning Gonzalez to the Maine Celtics. The rookie has appeared in 11 contests, averaging 12.4 minutes. “He showed through work ethic, maturity and defensive instincts that he can play at this level,” the coach said, adding that continued improvement is the priority.
Trade for extra picks outweighs missing on Kalkbrenner
Boston dealt the No. 32 selection in June, a choice Charlotte used on center Ryan Kalkbrenner. Team officials believe it is too early to judge the Creighton product, and the four second-rounders acquired—one helped move Georges Niang’s salary—offset any potential regret.
Source: Hoops Rumors
