Jayson Tatum's devastating injury could have long-term implications for Celtics

The injury is not only significant for the rest of the playoffs but also extends into 2026. The timeline for this injury is typically six to nine months, putting Tatum's availability for next season in doubt.

Boston's championship window has changed, and the team may make dramatic roster changes this offseason.

Those expected moves, combined with Tatum's unlikely play in 2026, create a problematic scenario for the Celtics front office to navigate in the next few months.

With Boston's chances for competing for an NBA title next season diminished and Giannis Antetokounmpo on the trade block, the Eastern Conference has blown wide-open.

The Celtics went all-in on this core, signing Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis and Payton Pritchard to contract extensions in the last two offseasons.

On the surface, retaining those players is a forward-thinking, savvy move. However, because Brad Stevens and the front office decided to extend each of these players, Boston's 2025-26 payroll is $464 million (including luxury taxes), according to ESPN's Bobby Marks.

The Celtics must move multiple of the significant role players — White, Holiday, Pritchard and Porzingis — to shed cap space.

The Celtics will look to go through a quick rebuild this offseason in hopes of maintaining a competitive culture, despite not having their best player available.