The Celtics shook off a disappointing loss in Game 1 against the 76ers and bounced back with an emphatic performance in Game 2 on Wednesday.
Speaking to reporters after the game, Boston coach Joe Mazzulla described his team as being “angry” and “pissed” following their late collapse against Philadelphia on Monday.
When asked if he liked the Celtics’ mentality ahead of the second game of the series, Mazzulla issued a one-word response.
“Yes,” said Mazzulla with his usual straight face.
The Celtics defeated the 76ers 121–87 on Wednesday, using a dominant second half to propel themselves to victory. From the start of the third quarter on, Boston outscored Philadelphia 64–38.
Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla said his team was "angry" and "pissed" for the last 48 hours.
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) May 4, 2023
Did Mazzulla like them being mad heading into Game 2 against the 76ers?
"Yes."
🎥 @NBCSCeltics pic.twitter.com/wCMRegkhvZ
Following Monday’s loss, Boston seemingly had nothing on its minds but revenge.
“I thought our defense led to energetic offense and I thought we did a great job of not passing up open (threes)... Our defensive presence led to our offense. Our good offense led to our defense,” said Mazzulla of the Celtics’ performance in Game 2.
The return of Joel Embiid, who missed Game 1 through an injury, didn’t help the 76ers. While he was formidable on the defensive end, recording five blocks before halftime, he struggled to find his rhythm offensively, scoring just 15 points on nine field goal attempts. Tobias Harris led the Sixers with 16 points.
The Celtics will look to keep the same level of energy when the series shifts back to Philadelphia for Games 3 and 4.
