New Season for the Celtics, but the pressure to Win Remains High For Mazzulla

Better players and assistant coaches will go far in Boston's quest to win title No. 18. But the growth of head coach Joe Mazzulla may be the biggest X-factor.

BOSTON - On the eve of training camp, the Boston Celtics were once again the talk of the NBA.

A year ago, Ime Udoka and his improper relationship with a Celtics employee was the dominant chatter in the league around this time, which then shifted towards his replacement Joe Mazzulla who was inheriting a team that was just months removed from a trip to the NBA Finals.

Well, a new season upon us, with new players.

But that title pressure Mazzulla was under last season?

It’s back, even more prominent and undeniable than it was a year ago.