The Latest Breaking News from Joe Mazzulla

It was "just another game" for the Boston Celtics despite hosting the Prince and Princess of Wales, who were in house for Boston's big win Wednesday night.

Some growing pains have emerged with the Celtics losing a winnable game against the Chicago Bulls last week due in large part to mediocre defense.

Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla praised his players for stepping up and staying ready following a big home win against the Washington Wizards.

BOSTON — The Celtics have proven early this season that they can win games without several of their key players. But they ventured into some uncharted territory without Jayson Tatum on Sunday night.

So far this season, reserve Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard has not gotten much playing time, but he's been a key microwave scorer for the Celtics whenever interim head coach Joe Mazzulla has called his number.

BOSTON — The Celtics couldn’t seem to get out of their own way. They weren’t getting it done defensively, and their frustration with the officiating was painfully apparent late in the third quarter, with Jayson Tatum and Grant Williams barking at the refs in a game that was in danger…

Is the hot start his doing? Or is it evidence that talent wins all?

All in all, it was a scintillating contest that further cemented the Celtics' status as a top team in the league this season.

"Both (offensive and defensive) systems were built for our full team, so when we get that it’ll be a seamless transition," explained Mazzulla.

To actually have a shot at winning the NBA's Kia Most Valuable Player award, you have to have a certain set of things going your way.

"It challenges us not only for the situation at hand, but also challenges us to be better down the line," he explained.