Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla has been under fire after Boston lost Game 4 vs. the 76ers Sunday 116–115, as his decision to not call a timeout during overtime proved costly. Instead of stopping the game to draw up a play with 19 seconds remaining, Mazzulla let the Celtics play despite having two timeouts remaining.
Initially, Mazzulla defended his decision after the game and argued that he’s trusted his team all year in those situations. However, on Monday, Mazzulla admitted that it probably would have been beneficial to call a timeout once it was clear Boston was struggling to find a quality shot.
“Hindsight is 20/20, I should have called to help us get a 2-for-1 or get a couple more possessions,” he said. “Obviously, 14 seconds left, down one, you want as many chances as you can. So, definitely learn from that.”
Joe Mazzulla: "Hindsight is 20/20, I should have called (a timeout at the end of OT) to help us get a 2-for-1 or get a couple more possessions. Obviously, 14 seconds left, down 1, you want as many chances as you can. So, definitely learn from that." pic.twitter.com/33rzyuNmhB
— Celtics on NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSCeltics) May 8, 2023
Boston had two chances to win at the buzzer on Sunday, first at the end of regulation and then at the end of overtime, but couldn’t come out on top despite overcoming a 16-point deficit. After James Harden made a three in overtime with 19 seconds left, Jayson Tatum tried to find an open shot, but he ended up passing the ball to Marcus Smart who got a shot off too late.
Once the game ended, fans and analysts instantly second-guessed Mazzulla’s decision to let Boston play.
Instead of the Celtics taking a commanding lead in the series, they and the Sixers head back to Boston with the series tied 2–2 and Game 5 on Tuesday.
