Injuries and the correlation with how long the NBA season is have been a hot topic in basketball circles. It started when Steve Kerr gave an impassioned speech about how he thought the season was too long, and that’s what has caused more injuries.
The Boston Celtics are no strangers to massive injuries. Jayson Tatum suffered a torn Achilles tendon in the second round of the playoffs last season against the Knicks. Tatum is trying to return at some point this season from that devastating injury.
Multiple other coaches have given their input on the current state of the game since Kerr gave his thoughts. Joe Mazzulla was asked about his thoughts recently, and he had a different take than some of his peers.
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – NOVEMBER 11: Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla reacts during a game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Xfinity Mobile Arena on November 11, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
Boston Celtics Coach Joe Mazzulla Zags on Injury Thoughts
Mazzulla talked about how he is getting his players ready for the games ahead.
“I mean, I do think that’s where the game is headed (playing a faster pace) for sure. I don’t know the science or the medical data behind it, but I appreciate the wear, tear, physicality, the things the guys go through to get their bodies ready to play. The league is playing faster. That’s one of the reasons why, not having patters, playing 11-12 guys, keeping guys fresh, that’s huge.”
Mazzulla seems to like the way the game is played now, but he understands depth is at the forefront of success.
“It takes a lot more, and that’s why we are leaning more into anybody on any given night. Anybody who is the freshest physically and mentally. How can we take advantage of everyone’s strengths? Just kinda have to be aware of that, and then obviously trust the medical team and the sports science team.”
GettyDETROIT, MICHIGAN – OCTOBER 26: Joe Mazzulla head coach of the Boston Celtics looks on against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on October 26, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images)
Celtics Coach Joe Mazzulla Appreciates Physicality in the NBA
Ever since he has taken over as the head coach for the Celtics, Mazzulla has established himself as a different kind of coach. He’s someone who advocated for more fights, he loves physicality, and lauds toughness. It’s an approach that his players respond to.
While Mazzulla doesn’t have the same response to these injuries as Kerr, it doesn’t mean his approach to things is wrong. The NBA is highly unlikely to change the number of games played in the season, as it would mean losing a ton of revenue. Mazzulla wants his players to adapt to the times.
As the head coach, it’s his job to put his players in the best position to succeed.
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