Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla praised his team’s mindset and physicality after Wednesday’s 117-114 victory over the Detroit Pistons at TD Garden, ending Detroit’s 13-game winning streak.
“We battled and had the grip and toughness to do whatever it takes to win,” Mazzulla said, highlighting Boston’s ability to stay composed despite Detroit’s efficient offense and 42-point performance from Cade Cunningham.
Mazzulla credited Jaylen Brown and Derrick White for their impact down the stretch, noting White’s 11 points in the final 4½ minutes and Brown’s timely box-outs that led to crucial rebounds.
“Jaylen has given everything on both ends, and those plays right there, just timely plays, really mattered,” Mazzulla explained, emphasizing the Celtics’ defensive intensity and situational awareness in critical moments.
The coach also praised Amari Williams for stepping in after limited playing time this season. “Just being able to play those 15 minutes and feel comfortable on the floor is a testament to him and our player development staff,” Mazzulla said.
Mazzulla pointed to Boston’s offensive execution as a major factor, noting 47% shooting from three and 20 points off turnovers as key advantages against a Pistons team that dominated free throws and offensive rebounds.
“Every game’s different, but tonight it was more about mindset than execution,” he said, underlining the Celtics’ ability to respond to adversity and maintain focus through physical play and multiple efforts.
The Celtics’ bench contributions were also vital, with Payton Pritchard grabbing a crucial offensive rebound on Cunningham’s final shot attempt, helping Boston secure the win without needing overtime.
Mazzulla highlighted the team’s defensive flexibility, noting that small lineups helped protect the rim better than with traditional bigs. “The heightened awareness and no-choice mentality really allowed us to make big plays,” he said.
Boston now improves to 10-8, claiming five wins in six games, while Detroit drops to 15-3 but falls short of tying its franchise consecutive-win record. The Celtics will visit Minnesota on Saturday, and the Pistons host Orlando on Friday.
