The Boston Celtics Are Defying Expectations This Season

The Boston Celtics are currently defying expectations. Here’s how the Celtics are rising in the Eastern Conference to secure an NBA Playoffs spot.

Boston Celtics Are Defying Expectations

Entering Tuesday’s game against the Utah Jazz, the Boston Celtics have a 19-12 record in hand, with a one-game losing skid. The Jazz have a 12-19 record, but with a two-game win streak.

Utah is rising, thanks to players like Keyonte George and Cody Williams, in the West, but Boston is proving they are still one of the best teams in the East.

Despite a large amount of turnover this offseason, Boston is staying strong. Jayson Tatum suffered an Achilles tendon tear during the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the New York Knicks. As a result, President of Basketball Operations and General Manager Brad Stevens parted ways with four key members of the team’s rotation.

Celtics’ Outlook

The Celtics’ outlook appears to be bright. Head Coach Joe Mazzulla’s coaching methods are paying off with a young and hungry roster, led by Guard Jaylen Brown, who sits third in the East.

Boston can cement itself as a true force if Tatum is cleared to return during the 2025-26 NBA season. Tatum, 27, underwent surgery to repair his ruptured Achilles tendon but showed progress in his rehabilitation. The 27-year-old may be available later this season, perhaps during or after the NBA All-Star Break from Feb. 14-19, 2026.

Final Thoughts

The Celtics will face the Jazz on Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. Mountain. Many fans see Boston as an NBA Play-In Tournament team and Utah as a squad going in the right direction.

Boston can enjoy an unlikely NBA Championship push as long as Mazzulla, 37, shores up his team’s defense. Utah has a challenging road for an NBA Play-In Tournament spot, but it can prioritize winning games and hoping for favorable outcomes from other teams.