NBA Validates Mazzulla’s Criticism: Siakam’s Screen Was Illegal

The NBA sided with Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla on Tuesday, confirming in its Last Two Minute Report that Indiana Pacers star Pascal Siakam had indeed set an illegal screen before his game-winning basket against Boston the previous night.

Mazzulla had not minced words regarding this play after the loss, responding to all six questions asked during his post-game press conference with the same two words: « illegal screen. »

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Jan 13, 2026

Sylvain Sultat

The Controversial Play That Decided the Game

Siakam had set the screen at the 3-point line, causing Celtics’ Derrick White to lose his balance. The star forward then received the ball back from Andrew Nembhard, pump-faked, and drove inside the free-throw line to hit a floater off the glass with 6.1 seconds remaining, giving Indiana the 98-96 victory.

In its Last Two Minute Report, the league ruled it was an incorrect non-call regarding Siakam’s screen. « Siakam is late to establish screening position on White’s path and does not give him the time or distance necessary to change direction and avoid contact on the screen, » the report stated.

Hard to argue with Joe here. This is very clearly an illegal screen https://t.co/eGG9m9wt2T pic.twitter.com/9mIlvgw9HV

— Ian Inangelo (@iinangelo) January 13, 2026

Boston Continues to Criticize Officiating

This is the latest point of contention with officiating for Boston. Star Jaylen Brown had criticized the referees after his team’s loss to the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday, when the Celtics attempted only four free throws. The NBA fined Brown $35,000 on Monday.

This official validation of Mazzulla’s criticism highlights the Celtics’ ongoing struggles with officiating, even though it won’t change the outcome of this crucial game won by the Pacers.