The Boston Celtics lost to the Cleveland Cavaliers 132-123 in overtime, and interim head coach Joe Mazzulla had some thoughts about why Boston stalled in the second half on both ends, and couldn’t hold their own defensively in the extra period.
“I think we just have to execute,” said Mazzulla after the game. “I don’t know if it’s a trend or an issue; I thought we were winning the game.” A combination of the team’s lack of proven big men available for the game, recurrent defensive lapses, and outstanding play from Cleveland’s Donovan Mitchell and Caris LeVert proved too much for the Celtics.
“We didn’t close out certain possessions,” explained the Celtics coach. “I don’t know if it’s as much of an issue as it is just being more consistent on both ends of the floor, and not relaxing and just understanding.”
PHOTOS – Cavs at Celtics: Boston falls to Cleveland 132-123 in overtime https://t.co/Eheem1csVv
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) October 29, 2022
“We have to earn it everywhere,” added Mazzulla.
With the loss, Boston falls to 3-2 and sole possession of fourth place in the East. They next play the Washington Wizards on Sunday, Oct. 30 at 5 pm ET.
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