Marcus Smart's Unique Perspective on Joe Mazzulla's Coaching Brilliance
In a matchup filled with history and rivalry, the Los Angeles Lakers faced off against the Boston Celtics, with former Celtics veteran Marcus Smart now donning the purple and gold. Smart, one of the few players to have suited up for both iconic franchises, offers a rare insider's view, especially having played under Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla.
Despite Smart's insights, the Lakers couldn't hold off the Celtics, who secured a commanding 111-89 victory. This game further solidified a growing consensus: Joe Mazzulla is emerging as one of the NBA's top coaching minds.
“Joe's a great coach,” Smart shared before the game. “He's learned from past experiences and made his own adjustments. He's doing a really good job.”
Mazzulla, who transitioned from a relatively unknown assistant to head coach in 2022, has been pivotal in the Celtics' success, particularly this season. Despite facing challenges like Jayson Tatum's absence due to injury, the Celtics have thrived, much to Smart's lack of surprise.
“They've got great players who have been together for a while,” Smart noted. “They're doing what I expected, and it's fun to watch.”
The Celtics' victory marked a season sweep of the Lakers, a feat last achieved in the 2022-23 season, and held the Lakers to their lowest offensive output of 2026. Now standing at 37-19, with an impressive road record, the Celtics sit second in the Eastern Conference.
JJ Redick on the job Joe Mazzulla has done this season with the Celtics:
— Daniel Donabedian (@danield1214) February 22, 2026
“I think Joe is — there's a handful of coaches that I think are doing a tier-one job this year. And Joe's in that group of coaches, he's really doing a phenomenal job.” pic.twitter.com/1c66auE6A1
Lakers head coach JJ Redick also praised Mazzulla's impact, highlighting his exemplary coaching this season. “Joe's doing a phenomenal job,” Redick remarked.
Both Smart and Redick's admiration for Mazzulla goes beyond personal ties, recognizing him as a serious Coach of the Year contender.
Yet, Mazzulla remains focused on the future. “The story is not done,” he said postgame. “We're a product of what we do tomorrow.”
Looking ahead, the Celtics face the Phoenix Suns, a team mirroring Boston's unexpected success. Mazzulla emphasizes growth, regardless of outcomes.
“Don't overreact to a good win or a bad loss,” he advised. “Get better the next game.”
Joe Mazzulla on whether he was offended, tired, or flattered about all the praise the Celtics have received for overachieving:
— Daniel Donabedian (@danield1214) February 22, 2026
“The season's 82 not 55…you can't get caught up in what you've done in the past, whether it was good or bad.” pic.twitter.com/9lOWZNxzhg
As the Celtics continue their journey, Mazzulla's leadership and Smart's unique insights offer fans a deeper understanding of Boston's impressive season.