The 2025-26 Boston Celtics were doubted by pretty much everyone before the season started.
Offseason losses such as Al Horford, Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, and Al Horford, as well as the Achilles injury to Jayson Tatum that has kept him out of all of the season thus far, had most people counting the Celtics out.
Silencing all of the doubt, this Celtics squad has tallied the sixth best record in the NBA (entering Wednesday) and the second best record in the Eastern Conference.
They are also just three games off of last season’s win pace.
The Celtics have leaned on Jaylen Brown’s strong play, along with reliable contributions from reigning Sixth Man of the Year Payton Pritchard, who has stepped up in key moments, including recent scoring outbursts and improved shooting efficiency.
Story continues below advertisement
The team has shown resilience in recent outings, posting a 6-4 mark in their last 10 games. Wins have included a 102-94 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on January 26, where Pritchard and Brown combined effectively, and a 115-101 triumph against the Chicago Bulls earlier in the month. Losses, such as to the Bulls and others, reflect occasional struggles, but Boston remains positioned well for the postseason push.
With the trade deadline approaching on February 5, speculation swirls about potential frontcourt additions to address depth issues amplified by injuries and Tatum’s status.
Story continues below advertisement
As the Celtics host the Atlanta Hawks on January 28 to continue their homestand, the focus remains on maintaining momentum and health amid a grueling schedule.
Featured image via Rick Osentoski/Imagn Images
