Joe Mazzulla had it coming. After months of asking for physicality and aggression on the court to boost the ratings, the Celtics HC took matters into his own hands. The late-game implosion against the Bulls led to a heated Mazzulla stepping into the court. What followed could’ve easily turned nasty if the bench and security didn’t intervene. A furious Mazzulla aggressively pursued the refs, directing profanity toward them for the alleged bad calls that cost them the game.

But when he was asked about the incident in the post-game interview, Mazzulla replied, “I just hadn’t seen them in a while, so just a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. I wasn’t sure if I was gonna see them before the holidays so..” That probably didn’t fly with the NBA as Joe Dumars announced a fine on Mazzulla earlier today.

“Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla has been fined $35,000 for aggressively pursuing and directing inappropriate language toward a game official, it was announced today by Joe Dumars, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations.The incident occurred at the conclusion of the Celtics’ 117-108 loss to the Chicago Bulls on Dec. 19 at TD Garden,” the statement read. While the fine was expected, fans were far from happy with the disciplinary action.

Boston fans question NBA’s action following Joe Mazzulla’s fine

Calling out the league over the standards of officiating, the basketball community rallied behind Mazzulla with one fan jokingly commenting, “War against Christmas continues,” referring to the 36-year-old’s comments.

Another fan boldly suggested, “Maybe fix the officiating before fining players and coaches for complaining about their incompetence?” There have been multiple instances where questions were raised regarding the referees’ decisions in NBA games. However, league commissioner Adam Silver and Co. are strict when it comes to criticizing the officials. That’s why Mazzulla wasn’t spared. But the fan believes that NBA officials should focus on fixing the refereeing decisions rather than fining players and coaches.

Boston reporter Chris Forsberg also chimed in with his hilarious take, stating,

“Maybe next time Joe just sends a Christmas card to the refs. Gotta be cheaper.” A card would have cost Mazzulla just a few dollars, whereas the fine surely burned a hole in his pocket.

“Yet no fine to the refs for ruining a close game,” someone highlighted. The fans riled up against the referee, as some of his decisions impacted the Celtics’ 108-117 loss. They were annoyed that Mazzulla was punished while the referee Justin Van Duyne faced no consequences.

Apart from Mazzulla’s technical foul, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown each received a tech as well. Tatum received the foul due to “an overt action towards an official,” while Brown was penalized for questioning the official’s integrity, according to crew chief Tony Brothers.