NBA, NBPA announce latest coronavirus testing results ahead of restart

The Boston Celtics have named Joe Mazzulla the 19th head coach in franchise history and have agreed upon a contract extension with him.

Mazzulla replaces Ime Udoka, who was suspended by the Celtics for the entire season.

“As he has shown, Joe is a very talented coach and leader,” said Brad Stevens. “He has a unique ability to galvanize a room around a mission. We are thankful for the work he has done to help get us to this point, and excited that he has agreed to lead us into the future.”

The Celtics currently own the best record in the Eastern Conference at 42-17. Mazzulla, a native of Johnston, RI, was recognized as the NBA Eastern Conference Coach of the Month for games played in October and November after leading the team to a league-best 18-4 record (.818). Mazzulla was also named the NBA All-Star Head Coach on Jan. 30, and will coach Team Giannis in Salt Lake City. Mazzulla becomes only the third first-year head coach over the last 24 seasons to helm an All-Star team, and is the eighth coach in Celtics history to earn the honor.

JJ Redick will meet with the Los Angeles Lakers this weekend, which will be his first formal interview for the open head coaching job.

Redick is expected to be the favorite to be hired.

Should the NBA Finals advance to a Game 5, that game won’t be played until Monday, giving Redick the weekend to meet with the Lakers.

Rob Pelinka and Redick have stayed connected throughout the process. Redick is likely to have an all-day session with Pelinka and Jeanie Buss. He’ll be given the opportunity to prove that he should lead the Lakers, with player development expected to be a key focus.

The Lakers previously offered their head coaching job to Dan Hurley, who ultimately decided to to remain at Connecticut.