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Wednesday night, the Celtics' defense propelled them to a 97-93 victory over the Raptors in a low-scoring affair. Between that and the Bucks beating the Bulls, 105-92, Boston is locked into the second seed in the Eastern Conference.

After the Celtics' win in the first half of their two-game miniseries against Toronto, head coach Joe Mazzulla shared his thoughts on Boston solidifying its playoff standing.

"It's good. Happy for the guys. (The) seed doesn't matter as much as the mindset we've had the entire season," adding, "finishing at the top in offense and defense, we're developing the proper mindset."

And after limiting the Sixers to 103 points, albeit in a loss, Tuesday, then holding the Raptors under 100 24 hours later, despite missing multiple starters in both matchups, Mazzulla also praised the Celtics' defense and effort.

"Our guys are detailed-oriented… We play with an effort. Credit to all the coaches on this team; they developed a defensive DNA," and "you’re always going to get effort from these guys."

Further Reading

Here's What Stood Out in Celtics' Win vs. Raptors: Boston's Defense Propels Hosts to Victory in Low-Scoring Affair

Joe Mazzulla Discusses Joel Embiid's 52-Point Performance and Whether the Celtics Should Have Done Anything Differently

Celtics Star Jaylen Brown Opens Up About Dealing with Trade Rumors

Jaylen Brown on His Relationship with Jayson Tatum: 'We’re a Part of Each Other’s Destiny'

Will the Celtics Prioritize Push for the 1 Seed or Rest? Joe Mazzulla Sheds Light on Boston's Approach

[Film Room] What the Celtics Did to Slow Down Giannis Antetokounmpo in Blowout vs. Bucks

The Celtics are Proud of Their Growth, Including Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown's Maturation: 'I think We're a Better Team'

Former Warriors' Director of Performance Keke Lyles Shares His Perspective on Load Management, Changing Stephen Curry's Movement Patterns, And What's Helped Jayson Tatum's Durability