Boston Celtics SURPRISES at halfway point: Neemias Queta, Joe Mazzulla, & Anfernee Simons

Boston Celtics surge past expectations at the NBA’s halfway point, riding standout campaigns from Jaylen Brown and surprise contributions from Neemias Queta and Luka Garza. Can Joe Mazzulla’s revamped system fuel a legit Eastern Conference title run? The front court’s impressive rise, plus Anfernee Simons’ defensive transformation, have fans buzzing about championship potential—but will the team’s good health continue as rivals like the Cavaliers, Knicks, and Sixers regroup?

John Karalis hosts Bobby Krivitzky, Jack Simone, and Noa Dalzell as they spotlight the Celtics’ relentless effort, locker room buy-in, and tactical flexibility. The team’s top net rating, surprise development of Jordan Walsh, and candid takes on Derrick White and Payton Pritchard’s seasons set the stage for a high-stakes playoff push. Insightful analysis on potential trades, playoff seeding battles, and coach-of-the-year buzz for Joe Mazzulla make this a must-listen for Celtics fans.

0:00 Midseason Surprises & Expectations
3:00 Celtics' Unexpected Success
7:20 Assessing Team Ceiling & Realism
13:34 Eastern Conference Landscape
22:30 Rapid Fire: Surprises & Disappointments
36:10 Joe Mazzulla’s Coaching Impact

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Locked On Celtics is a daily Boston Celtics podcast by Boston Sports Journal beat writer John Karalis. It's an inside look at the C's from a former professional basketball player who is at practices & games.

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