Celtics’ Joe Mazzulla: Empty Possessions Will Take A Toll On You

January 11, 2025

On Friday night, the Boston Celtics suffered a disappointing loss to the Sacramento Kings, falling 114-97 in a game that left head coach Joe Mazzulla and his team frustrated.

Even more concerning, the Kings were without their star player, De’Aaron Fox, who missed the game due to injury.

After the game, Mazzulla was asked about his team’s effort, and he didn’t mince words when explaining the struggles that led to the defeat (h/t CLNS Media Boston Sports Network).

“If you’re having empty possession after empty possession and then they’re scoring, that takes a toll on you,” Mazzulla said. “I said it’s not a long-term effort thing, but in the short term, yeah, I think our inefficient offense put pressure on our defense… You’re coming down missing them, and they’re coming down making them. It’s gonna take a toll on you.”

Despite boasting a 27-11 record this season, which is among the best in the NBA, the Celtics have struggled with consistency lately, going 5-5 over their last 10 games. This loss to the Kings, who improved to 19-19 with the win, was particularly frustrating given that Sacramento was without its best player in Fox.

The Kings’ offense was led by Domantas Sabonis, who had a monster performance. The Celtics were unable to slow him down, as he finished with 23 points, 28 rebounds (including 8 offensive boards), and 10 assists. Sabonis shot 10-of-15 from the field and made as many offensive rebounds as the Celtics as a team.

Via StatMuse: “Sabonis tonight: 23 PTS, 28 REB (8 OREB), 10-15 FG.”

The Celtics also struggled defensively against the Kings’ perimeter shooting. Sacramento hit 38.3% of its 47 three-point attempts, contributing to the Celtics’ defensive woes.

The Celtics now have a quick turnaround as they’ll remain in Boston for their next game on Sunday, where they will face the New Orleans Pelicans. This loss to Sacramento is a wake-up call for Boston, as they look to get back on track and continue their pursuit of the top spot in the Eastern Conference.

Meanwhile, the Kings, riding a six-game winning streak, continue to push for playoff positioning in the competitive Western Conference. With a record of 19-19, they currently sit in the ninth seed, but their recent run of success, led by strong performances from Sabonis and others, suggests that they could be a team to watch as the season progresses.