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3 ways Boston Celtics stars can show the “Mamba Mentality”

By Andrew Hughes

MIAMI, FLORIDA - JANUARY 28: A detail of a tribute in remembrance of former NBA player Kobe Bryant who died in helicopter accident on Sunday, during the first half between the Miami Heat and the Boston Celtics at American Airlines Arena on January 28, 2020 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FLORIDA - JANUARY 28: A detail of a tribute in remembrance of former NBA player Kobe Bryant who died in helicopter accident on Sunday, during the first half between the Miami Heat and the Boston Celtics at American Airlines Arena on January 28, 2020 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /
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Boston Celtics (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
Boston Celtics (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

Kemba Walker: continue to be a true professional

Bryant’s approach to the game and his teammates could be dissected…though now is certainly not the appropriate time. Many observers lambasted Bryant for the way he treated his teammates, but at the end of the day, Kobe was prone to being disappointed in the lack of effort–and often times the lack of professionalism–shown by his comrades.

During the back-end of Bryant’s career, it was evident that he was not a fan of the hi-jinks of certain teammates, with Nick Young and D’Angelo Russell coming to mind. To be fair, going from winning championships to losing constantly with a group that seemed more concerned with off-court gossip would drive most anyone mad.

LeBron James just upended the Los Angeles Lakers core for the same reason.

As the leader of the Boston Celtics, Kemba Walker could theoretically have similar frustrations if similar behavior was ever displayed by the young members of the C’s core. Luckily, without the distractions that playing in Hollywood brings, it seems easier for this group to not be distracted.

Where Walker fits in is continuing to be the leader he has been. Instead of throwing guys under the bus like Kyrie Irving unjustifiably did last season, Walker has talked up his teammates and has contributed to a fun, team-centric style of play that has resulted in both smiles and home-field advantage in the first round if the season ended today.

The “Mamba Mentality” is all about winning. Continuing to be the professional he has been is the best way for Walker to honor the greatest player to ever wear his number #8.

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