Spurs' Johnson and Celtics' Mazzulla selected as December's top coaches

The NBA has officially named Mitch Johnson of the San Antonio Spurs and Joe Mazzulla of the Boston Celtics as the Coaches of the Month for December. Johnson secured the Western Conference honor after guiding San Antonio to a league-best 11-3 record, excluding the NBA Cup final. Despite significant injuries to Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle, the Spurs excelled, posting top-tier statistics with the fifth-ranked offense and sixth-ranked defense. Johnson prevailed over contenders like Adelman, Daigneault, and Finch.

In the East, Mazzulla’s Celtics demonstrated remarkable improvement, climbing from eighth to third place behind a strong 9-3 performance. Navigating star Jayson Tatum’s absence, Boston achieved the NBA’s highest offensive rating and second-best net rating, securing prestigious wins against the Knicks, Lakers, and Raptors. Mazzulla beat out nominees Bickerstaff, Brown, and Fernandez. Previously, Daigneault and Bickerstaff held these honors for October and November, making this a fresh recognition for both successful coaches.