"Marcus Smart praises Joe Mazzulla's ability to learn amid criticism ahead of Celtics vs. 76ers Game 7"

Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart defended coach Joe Mazzulla amid criticism, saying that he is still learning and that players have an open dialogue with him. Smart praised Mazzulla's decision to insert Robert Williams III into the starting lineup for Game 6, which helped the Celtics force a Game 7 against the Philadelphia 76ers. Mazzulla has faced criticism throughout the series, but Smart believes that he has been a part of the team's journey and that they believe in him.