One player the Warriors need to neutralize Friday night against Boston: Cal alum Jaylen Brown, who has climbed into another realm in his fourth season in the NBA. Brown, an uber-athletic, 6-foot-6 wing player, turned pro after only one year with the Bears ...

For the Celtics, that kind of mentality is exactly what head coach Joe Mazzulla wants to hear. Throughout the offseason, the team has spent time sharpening its defensive identity. In fact, last season’s playoff exit reignited their championship aspirations.