Joe Mazzulla Not Placing a Minutes Cap on How Much Celtics Starters Play in Preseason Opener

Ahead of the Celtics' preseason opener against the Charlotte Hornets, Joe Mazzulla's first game as Boston's interim head coach, he relayed the following during his pregame media availability regarding a minutes restriction for the starters today.

"It’s not really a max," adding, "just want to see where they’re at, physically, mentally."

Mazzulla also said not to read anything into who starts for the Celtics today. And when it comes to how he'll interact with officials, well, that's something not even he knows until the game unfolds. He also cited the need to be respectful towards the refs, understanding the difficulty of their job, but also needing to demonstrate support for his players.

Lastly, regarding player availability, Luke Kornet is out for today's matchup. Kornet suffered an ankle sprain expected to sideline him for one to two weeks. That places his ability to return before the Oct. 18 season opener against the Sixers in question.

As for the Hornets, old friend Gordon Hayward is inactive for today's game due to a left knee contusion. Cody Martin, who's dealing with left knee tendinopathy, is also out.

Tip off between the Celtics and Hornets is at 1 PM EST. Inside The Celtics will have content related to the game coming out before, during, and after. And follow @BobbyKrivitsky on Twitter for updates and analysis from pregame to post.

Further Reading

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Celtics Sign Blake Griffin; Here's What He Provides and Why They Chose Him

Joe Mazzulla Discusses Dynamic Working with Celtics' Coaching Staff Mostly Brought on by Ime Udoka

Celtics Taking Notice of Jayson Tatum's Growth as a Leader

Malcolm Brogdon: 'this is the most talented team I've played on'

Here's What Jaylen Brown Had to Say About Communication with Celtics After Coming Up in Trade Rumors Again

Here's What Stands Out About the Celtics' Schedule