The newsworthy Eastern Conference Finals are in the books. Following their devastating loss in Game 7 to Jimmy Butler and Miami Heat, a video emerged of Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla passionately expressing his frustration during a photo shoot, commanding his players to “fu*king smile“. The incident immediately sparked a heated debate among fans, with differing opinions on whether Mazzulla’s outburst was justified or not.
Mazzulla?s outburst while Jimmy Butler and the Heat celebrate
After watching the viral video, NBA fans exploded with reactions. While some defended the coach, highlighting his role in bringing the Celtics to Game 7, others questioned whether such a display of anger was detrimental to the team’s morale. The incident became a focal point of discussion, overshadowing the on-court performances and generating mixed reactions within the Celtics fan base.
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One user went on to say, “No wonder they got smoked ?. This dude is horrible. I feel bad for Celtics fans if he’s not fired.”
No wonder they got smoked 🤣. This dude is horrible. I feel bad for Celtics fans if he's not fired.
— kusang2k (@m52773827) May 30, 2023
A lot of criticism of the speech followed by comments like, “worst speech I ever heard LOL“,
worst speech I ever heard LOL
— LG Buyaka (@SteveMaida) May 30, 2023
“What?s there to smile about you lost to a 8th seed ???“.
What’s there to smile about you lost to a 8th seed 😂😂😂
— death⛈👑 (@deaththekiid__) May 30, 2023
Some fans also backed the coach by saying, “Since when was advancing to the conference finals and forcing a game 7 a sign of being a bad coach??”
Since when was advancing to the conference finals and forcing a game 7 a sign of being a bad coach??
— Jones (@PWAlcoin) May 30, 2023
and “You?re delusional. He?s a great coach he?s been scapegoated“.
You’re delusional. He’s a great coach he’s been scapegoated
— don juan (@ao1ryan) May 30, 2023
While others went on to say, “He can?t coach“.
“He can’t coach” ….
— The Locker Room Podcast (@TLRpodcast1) May 30, 2023
Jimmy Butler once again proved his mettle by shining bright in Game 7.
His 28 points outing, with his defensive prowess and clutch, plays down the stretch, played a significant role in Miami’s triumph to beat Jayson Tatum and the crew and advance to the NBA Finals.
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The fallout and the road ahead
As fans dissected the incident, it became evident that Mazzulla’s frustration stemmed from a hard-fought series against the Miami Heat. Both teams showcased their competitive spirit, trading blows in a series that saw thrilling moments and nail-biting finishes. It was an emotionally charged battle that pushed both players and coaches to their limits.
Celtics fans have been through highs and lows, supporting their team through thick and thin. The incident involving Joe Mazzulla’s fiery speech during the Celtics’ photo shoot ignited a passionate debate among fans.
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While the fans are divided on this matter, the triumph of Miami and the performance of Jimmy Butler cannot be underlined as they played better basketball. As fans eagerly await the next season, the debate surrounding coaching styles and their impact on team performance will likely continue to resonate within the Celtics community.