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Boston Celtics Daily Links 10/8/26

The Boston Celtics are kicking off their 2026-27 preseason with an unusual twist: head coach Joe Mazzulla will not lead the team in their opener against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Instead, assistant coaches Tony Dobbins and DJ MacLeay will take the helm, marking a rare shift in leadership ahead of the first official game of the campaign.

This move comes as Mazzulla emphasizes an empowering coaching culture, allowing his assistants to guide the team while he remains involved in other capacities. Meanwhile, star forward Jayson Tatum has entered training camp with a renewed mindset, describing a 'totally different perspective' this season, while fellow All-Star Derrick White is stepping into a more prominent leadership role, particularly on defense and shot selection.

The team’s young wings, including Tatum and White, have shown promising development in camp, raising questions about their readiness for expanded responsibilities as the season approaches. Injuries have also impacted the Cavaliers, leaving the Celtics with a potential advantage in their preseason matchup, though the focus remains on evaluating roster depth and chemistry ahead of the regular season.

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Boston Celtics (0-0) at Cleveland Cavaliers (0-0) Preseason Game #1 10/8/26