Celtics Superlatives and Awards: MVP, Most Improved, and More

Boston's top performers shine in breakout 2025-26 season

Apr. 13, 2026 at 11:43pm

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The Boston Celtics exceeded expectations in the 2025-26 season, earning the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference. With the regular season complete, it's time to hand out superlatives and awards, including MVP, Most Improved Player, Defensive Player of the Year, Biggest Surprise, Rookie of the Year, and Sixth Man of the Year.

Why it matters

The Celtics' strong season came as a surprise after the team lost key players in the offseason. These awards highlight the breakout performances that fueled Boston's success and set the stage for a deep playoff run.

The details

Jaylen Brown was the clear choice for MVP, averaging career highs in points, rebounds, and assists to lead the team. Neemias Queta made a huge leap as the starting center, earning Most Improved Player consideration. Derrick White's elite defense earned him Defensive Player of the Year honors. Luka Garza emerged as a valuable big man off the bench, the biggest surprise of the season. Rookie Hugo Gonzalez provided energy and hustle, while Baylor Scheierman was a key sixth man with his 3-point shooting.

  • Jayson Tatum returned from an Achilles injury on March 6, 2026.
  • The Celtics finished the regular season with a 56-26 record, earning the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference.

The players

Jaylen Brown

The Celtics' MVP, Brown averaged career highs in points, rebounds, and assists while leading Boston to a 56-26 record.

Neemias Queta

The Most Improved Player, Queta averaged 10.2 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game as the Celtics' starting center.

Derrick White

The Defensive Player of the Year, White averaged a career-high 1.3 blocks per game and was a lock for the All-Defensive First Team.

Luka Garza

The biggest surprise, Garza emerged as a valuable big man off the bench, averaging 8.1 points and 4.1 rebounds while shooting 43.3% from 3-point range.

Hugo Gonzalez

The Rookie of the Year, Gonzalez provided energy and hustle off the bench, showcasing his potential on both ends of the floor.

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What they’re saying

“He's probably one of the most improved players this year. I don't know if he's up for the award, but he should be.”

— Jaylen Brown

What’s next

The Celtics will look to carry their regular season success into the playoffs as they chase Banner 19.

The takeaway

The Celtics' breakout season was fueled by a mix of established stars and unexpected contributors, setting the team up for a deep playoff run and a chance at an NBA championship.