Joe Mazzulla Discusses Key Strategy vs. Chicago Bulls

On Sunday, the Boston Celtics picked up a sizable 124-97 win over the Chicago Bulls. As a result of their 27-point victory, the Celtics qualified for the quarterfinals of the NBA’s In-Season Tournament.

For the third quarter, Boston held the Bulls to a game-low 18 points. During the frame, Chicago committed three turnovers. This defensive effort enabled the Celtics to play up-tempo, keep in rhythm, and extend their double-digit lead.

Per Inside The Celtics, Joe Mazzulla believes stringing together stops and forcing turnovers was a key component to his team’s second-half success.

“That was the key. You can call it what you want, but there are times when human nature comes in and you get bored, and you start to deteriorate from your habits…Tonight, we didn’t do that, so, we have to find a way to capitalize on that."

Mazzulla emphasized the importance of maintaining healthy habits, regardless of the score.

“When you’re up 30, keep fighting over screens. It’s just as important as if it’s a tie game… All those little habits are teaching points that we have to try to get to.”

The Celtics’ next game is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 1, against the Philadelphia 76ers at TD Garden; tip-off is at 7:30 p.m. EST.

Further Reading

Joe Mazzulla Discusses Strategy Behind New Wrinkle Helping Celtics Win on the Margins

An Empowered Jaylen Brown Strives to Balance Scoring with Playmaking: 'I've Grown A Lot'

Here's What Stood Out as Celtics Overcame Poor Second Half vs. Hawks Sunday

Celtics' Loss to Magic Highlights Their Most Concerning Traits

Jaylen Brown, Kristaps Porzingis Discuss Their Quickly Cultivated Chemistry: 'An Automatic Connection'

Jrue Holiday Shares His Perspective on First Matchup vs. Bucks Since They Traded Him

Celtics Discuss Significance of Rivalry Win vs. 76ers for No. 1 Seed in East

Joe Mazzulla Believes Celtics' Second Unit is 'Starting to Develop an Identity'

Kristaps Porzingis Gives Glimpse of How He'll Boost Celtics Late-Game Offense

Under Joe Mazzulla, Celtics Rebuilding Brotherhood Between Past and Present