Should Joe Mazzulla be an early favorite for NBA Coach of the Year?

The Boston Celtics were expected to have a down year following Jayson Tatum's playoff injury and subsequent roster changes, including the departures of key players like Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis.

Despite a weakened lineup, coach Joe Mazzulla has led the team to a strong start, including a signature win against the Toronto Raptors with several role players stepping up.

Mazzulla's performance raises the question of whether he is a candidate for Coach of the Year, though the Oklahoma City Thunder's Mark Daigneault is a favorite due to their league-best record and star-studded roster.

The article suggests that Mazzulla's coaching efforts were perhaps undervalued last season due to the Celtics' perceived overwhelming talent, whereas this season's challenges have better showcased his abilities.