Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla has a unique mindset that has already led him to championship success. As the new season approaches, many wonder if the Celtics are prepared to defend their title as the new “hunted” team. Mazzulla, however, sees things differently, as he explained on the Locked On Celtics Podcast.
“The phrase ‘defending a title’ is a very passive-aggressive term. Some of the strongest animals in the animal kingdom don’t defend; they attack. Whether you’ve won or not, your mindset must remain aggressive and focused on the goal,” Mazzulla stated. “You’re not defending something; you’re attacking a new goal.”
Embracing the challenge of being the team to beat, Mazzulla welcomes the target on the Celtics’ back this season.
“People may say the target is on our backs, but I want it right between our eyes on our forehead,” Mazzulla emphasized as Boston prepares to open the season against the rival New York Knicks on October 22nd.
Joe Mazzulla and Boston Celtics Ready for Quest to Repeat as NBA Champions
Boston’s Odds to Repeat
The Celtics are favored to repeat as champions, with the best odds going into the 2024 season according to FanDuel. As of September 10th, 2024, their odds stand at +300. The Oklahoma City Thunder follow with +700 odds, while the Philadelphia 76ers and New York Knicks are both at +900. The Denver Nuggets and Dallas Mavericks share the fourth-best odds at +1,100. With a strong roster and coaching from Mazzulla, the Celtics are positioned for another impressive season.
With a stable roster and talented players like Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum, the Celtics have the potential to reach the NBA Finals once again. Veterans like Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday bring valuable experience to the team, making Boston a formidable opponent. Joe Mazzulla and his team are poised to remain a threat in the league.
