Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown
Getty
The Celtics continue to dominate the Eastern Conference even in Jayson Tatum's absence.
This season, no team in the NBA has shocked the basketball world more than the Boston Celtics. After originally being seen as a squad going through a gap year, some now believe they’ll be pulling off yet another deep postseason run.
Last playoffs, the Celtics were hit with devastating news that Jayson Tatum suffered an Achilles injury. Later that summer, they decided to dismantle the roster by parting with veterans Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis. Boston then proceeded to make a series of smaller moves in the margins, leading many to think they’d be bowing out of the title race in 2026.
Despite being without their star player, the Celtics have defied the odds. Led by an MVP candidate in Jaylen Brown, they’ve maintained a top spot in the Eastern Conference standings.
Coming off their recent victory over the Philadelphia 76ers, Lou Williams gave high praise to the Celtics on the “Run It Back” show on March 2nd. Looking at the current landscape in the East, he feels Boston should be seen as the clear frontrunner.
“I still like Boston,” Williams said. “I like Boston coming out the East right now. If I have a frontrunner right now, I’m giving Boston that respect.”
Ex-Player Doesn’t Want Celtics to Rush Back Jayson Tatum
Since the news emerged that Tatum participated in 5-on-5 scrimmages in practice, the Celtics star has been a major topic of conversation across the association. Despite what his return could do for Boston’s title hopes, many are urging the team to make the smart decision.
On March 2nd, the Tatum debate reached news heights following the latest news. While speaking with Zach Lowe on his podcast, Bill Simmons reported that “all signs” indicate that Tatum will make his return against the Dallas Mavericks later this week.
Following Simmons’ remarks, longtime NBA forward Chandler Parsons weighed in on Tatum’s possible imminent return. While it would be a remarkable feat to come back this far ahead of schedule, he doesn’t want the Celtics to rush things.
“Isn’t that quick,” Parsons said. “I hope he’s not rushing. Don’t do that.”
Dating back to before the start of the season, Tatum was adamant about playing at some point during the 2026 campaign. Despite the new developments, it is still not confirmed if or when he’ll be on the floor.
NBA Analyst Confident Celtics Can be Threat in the East
No matter how things unfold regarding Tatum, the Celtics have shown they’re a team that isn’t going to go quietly this season. Given their postseason pedigree, one NBA analyst made a case for them being one of the last teams standing.
During the March 2nd episode of ESPN’s “First Take,” Vince Goodwill gave his thoughts on Boston as the playoffs loom.
“Yeah they’re a real threat in the East,” Goodwill said of the Celtics. “Jayson Tatum is on his way back. He may be back in the next couple of weeks. Jaylen Brown is an MVP candidate. Are they the team to beat? Nah I can’t say that.”
First Take
“Yeah, they’re a real threat in the east. … Jayson Tatum is on his way back.” @VinceGoodwill on if the Celtics are a real threat in the Eastern Conference 🏀
With Tatum reportedly gearing up to rejoin his teammates in action, the Celtics are by far one of the most interesting teams heading into the postseason.