The Latest Breaking News from Joe Mazzulla

Perhaps in his own bid to be declared king (of the NBA), Jayson Tatum led the charge against a determined if banged-up Heat squad.

Joe Mazzulla has transformed a team many worried might flounder in the wake of the scandal following the suspension of head coach Ime Udoka.

BOSTON — The Celtics have proven early this season that they can win games without several of their key players. But they ventured into some uncharted territory without Jayson Tatum on Sunday night.

So far this season, reserve Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard has not gotten much playing time, but he's been a key microwave scorer for the Celtics whenever interim head coach Joe Mazzulla has called his number.

BOSTON — The Celtics couldn’t seem to get out of their own way. They weren’t getting it done defensively, and their frustration with the officiating was painfully apparent late in the third quarter, with Jayson Tatum and Grant Williams barking at the refs in a game that was in danger…

Is the hot start his doing? Or is it evidence that talent wins all?

All in all, it was a scintillating contest that further cemented the Celtics' status as a top team in the league this season.

"Both (offensive and defensive) systems were built for our full team, so when we get that it’ll be a seamless transition," explained Mazzulla.

To actually have a shot at winning the NBA's Kia Most Valuable Player award, you have to have a certain set of things going your way.