Stephen A. Smith Warns Celtics' Eastern Conference Rivals

ESPN analyst says Boston is a 'problem' for the rest of the East

Mar. 30, 2026 at 8:35pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a Celtics basketball game broken down into overlapping planes of green, white, and gold, capturing the dynamic energy and movement of the team.Celtics' renewed energy and Tatum's elevated play have the rest of the East on notice ahead of the playoffs.Boston Today

ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith warned the rest of the Eastern Conference to 'watch out' for the Boston Celtics as they head into the NBA Playoffs. Smith praised the Celtics' recent strong play, led by the resurgence of star forward Jayson Tatum, and said the team is 'a bit different' from last year's squad that was upset in the playoffs.

Why it matters

The Celtics are one of the top contenders in the Eastern Conference and their recent hot streak has them poised for another deep playoff run. Smith's comments highlight how dangerous the Celtics could be if Tatum continues his strong play, which would make them a formidable opponent for any team in the East.

The details

The Celtics have won 7 of their last 8 games entering Monday's matchup with the Atlanta Hawks, clinching a playoff berth with their 50th win of the season. Smith praised Tatum's elevated play, noting he has scored 58 points over his last two games combined and won Eastern Conference Player of the Week honors. Smith believes the Celtics' younger, faster, and more athletic roster compared to last season makes them a 'problem' for the rest of the Eastern Conference.

  • The NBA Playoffs are just two weeks away.
  • The Celtics clinched a playoff berth with their 50th win of the season.

The players

Jayson Tatum

The Celtics' star forward who has been playing at a high level lately, scoring 58 points over his last two games.

Stephen A. Smith

An ESPN analyst who warned the rest of the Eastern Conference to 'watch out' for the Celtics in the playoffs.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Jayson Tatum... This brother is elevating. If that happens, that is a problem for the entire Eastern Conference. It doesn't matter who they play. Boston can beat anybody... Boston is a bit different. This is not the same team that they were last year. Everybody better watch out.”

— Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Analyst

What’s next

The Celtics will look to continue their strong play as they head into the NBA Playoffs, where they will be a force to be reckoned with in the Eastern Conference.

The takeaway

Stephen A. Smith's warning highlights the Celtics' potential to be a dominant team in the playoffs, especially if Jayson Tatum can maintain his elevated level of play. The Celtics' improved roster and hunger to redeem last year's early playoff exit make them a formidable opponent for any team in the East.