The Boston Celtics are easily the best team in the Eastern Conference with superstar Jayson Tatum back in action. Tatum tore his Achilles tendon last season in a playoff series against the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals. There were concerns he could miss the entire 2025-26 season.
This injury gave the team and fans a lot to think about. Before the season started, it was almost viewed as a “tanking year” or “we have no chance” by fans. Boston has proved everyone wrong, and are in a great position entering the postseason.
Before Tatum’s Return
Before his return, the Celtics were surprisingly playing good basketball, and shockingly sat in the top few seeds without Tatum. Being 41-21 without the best player gave this team life. Players like Jaylen Brown, Neemius Queta, and more have stepped up big time in his absence.
Brown has played like an MVP candidate all season. His ability to lead a team and be the number one option has been on display. Averaging 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game, he’s been the Celtics leader without Tatum. He is a great two-way player, effective on both ends of the floor.
The Celtics didn’t have a good big man after the Kristaps Porzingis trade, but Neemias Queta has been a factor in the absence of a true center. His stepping up is why this team is so good. After not having much of a role last season, he is now the team’s starting center, giving productive minutes, and is a large reason the team is doing so well.
