Apr 29, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) reacts after a three point basket by Boston Celtics center Al Horford (42) (not pictured) against the Orlando Magic in the third quarter during game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images David Butler II-Imagn Images

4x NBA All-Star Makes Strong Boston Celtics Prediction

Originally posted on New Orleans Pelicans on SI
By Liam Willerup | Last updated Apr 30, 2025 2:11 PM ET

The Boston Celtics captured the 2024 NBA Championship by beating the Dallas Mavericks, and it was clear after the series that they would be a popular pick to repeat in the following season. While they didn't capture the number one seed in the Eastern Conference, with that going to the Cleveland Cavaliers, they showed in their first-round series that they are still just as dominant.

After beating the Orlando Magic in five games, the Celtics will await the winner of the New York Knicks-Detroit Pistons series. While the competition will definitely increase, with the Knicks the likely matchup, former New Orleans Pelicans star DeMarcus Cousins believes that the Celtics are even better than last season.

Boogie Cousins expects Boston to run through the East this postseason—and tonight’s dismantling of the Magic shows why

The Celtics made quick work of Orlando, thanks in large part to Jayson Tatum putting on a clinic

Jayson Tatum tonight:
☘️ 35 PTS
☘️ 8 REB
☘️ 10 AST
☘️… pic.twitter.com/VIz2UCDmof
— Run It Back (@RunItBackFDTV) April 30, 2025

"I don't really see anybody matching up with them in the East...," Cousins said on Run It Back. "They're a complete team, and they're the reigning champs for a reason. I think they'll continue to push through the East."

A major reason for Boston's success early in the playoffs has been the play of Jayson Tatum. Looking to capture a Finals MVP after he was criticized for his performance last year, Tatum averaged 31.3 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in their five-game series against the Magic.

Winslow Townson-Imagn Images

Even if the Celtics make it to the Eastern Conference Finals and face the Cavaliers, they probably wouldn't face their toughest matchup until the NBA Finals, with several Western Conference teams looking capable of making the run this season.

This article first appeared on New Orleans Pelicans on SI and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: