Celtics Defy Expectations with Surprise Season

Jayson Tatum's return from injury and roster changes fuel Boston's playoff push

Mar. 31, 2026 at 8:51pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting depicting the dynamic movement and energy of a basketball player driving to the hoop, with vibrant neon colors and loose, energetic brushstrokes.Jayson Tatum's unexpected return from injury has fueled the Celtics' surprising playoff push this season.Boston Today

The Boston Celtics were widely expected to struggle this season after losing key size in the offseason and with star player Jayson Tatum sidelined for much of the year due to an Achilles injury. However, the Celtics have defied those low expectations, surging into playoff position behind Tatum's return to form and a revamped roster.

Why it matters

The Celtics' surprising success this season challenges the common narrative that they would take a step back in 2026. Their ability to remain competitive despite significant personnel changes and an injury to their best player shows the team's resilience and adaptability.

The details

While the Celtics did lose some size in the offseason, they've compensated with a more versatile and balanced roster. Tatum has returned from his Achilles injury sooner than expected and is playing at an All-Star level, leading the team's offensive charge. The Celtics have also gotten strong contributions from their supporting cast, with several players stepping up to fill the void left by departed veterans.

  • Jayson Tatum suffered a torn Achilles injury in the 2025 offseason.
  • The Celtics made roster changes in the 2025 offseason, parting ways with some of their bigger players.
  • The 2026 NBA season is currently underway, with the Celtics exceeding preseason expectations.

The players

Jayson Tatum

The Celtics' star player, who was expected to miss significant time this season due to an Achilles injury but has returned sooner than anticipated and is leading the team's playoff push.

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What they’re saying

“I'm not surprised at all by how well the Celtics have played this year. They've got a deep, talented roster and when Jayson Tatum is healthy, they can compete with anyone.”

— Kendrick Perkins, Former NBA player and current analyst

What’s next

The Celtics will look to continue their strong play and secure a playoff berth in the final weeks of the regular season.

The takeaway

The Celtics' ability to overcome preseason doubts and remain in the playoff hunt despite key personnel changes and an injury to their star player demonstrates the team's resilience and the depth of their roster. This season has proven the initial narrative about the Celtics' struggles to be misguided.