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Patrick Beverley and Jason Williams are convinced the Boston Celtics will achieve something despite 1-3 start

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Luca Rosano | Last updated Oct 29, 2025 6:49 PM ET

After starting the season 0-3, the Boston Celtics picked up their first win of the season over the New Orleans Pelicans.

It was a much-needed win from a Boston Celtics team that has struggled mightily without their superstar Jayson Tatum, who is sidelined and recovering from an Achilles tear.

The big story of the game for the Celtics was Anfernee Simons who provided a spark off the bench. He scored a game-high 25 points in 32 minutes of action.

Simons has the ability to put up big numbers as he was one of seven Celtics players who finished the game in double figures.

Patrick Beverley says the Boston Celtics can sneak into the Play-In Tournament and ‘beat anyone’

The Celtics aren’t expected to compete for a championship this season. That was made obvious after the injury to Tatum and the subsequent trades of Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis.

The Celtics are thin with their frontcourt depth and they don’t strike the same fear in their opposition as they once did.

However, despite their slow start, former NBA Champion Jason Williams thinks the Celtics can sneak into the Play-In Tournament.

“I think they’ll sneak in,” Williams said.

Patrick Beverley was in agreement, as he said, “I think if they sneak in, with the experience that coach has, I’m not saying they’ll win it all, but they can beat [anyone]. That’s a team you do not want to play.”

“Nobody wants to play them. You’ll see. That’s a system. You’ve got to go to Boston,” Williams added.

Patrick Beverley praises Anfernee Simons, says ‘he’s a dog’

Simons having a strong game for the Celtics is a good sign. He was recently endorsed by Lou Williams, who said Simons should be a starter.

Simons has a tremendous offensive game, while his defense isn’t as bad as people think.

Beverley is also a fan of Simons and said fans have to be patient with him.

“They haven’t even activated Anfernee Simons yet. He’s a dog. He’s still trying to find his way through the team. Give them about 20 games.”

Beverley went on to say that if the Celtics wind up playing a good team in the Play-In Tournament it will be a good series.

“I’m not saying they’re going to win a championship or anything like that. I’m saying they’re getting into the Play-In. If they play a good team, I’m not saying they’re going to win, but it’s going to be a good series.

“You’re not telling me you’re just coming into Boston and just walking out with wins. I don’t give a f— where you’re at.”

It’s still early as the Celtics can definitely turn their season around and find their footing, which would make things interesting down the stretch.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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