Celtics Prepare for Playoffs with Tatum, Brown, and Defensive Standout Walsh

Boston's dynamic duo looks to lead the team to a championship in the postseason.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 2:48am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game between the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers, with the players' figures broken down into abstract shapes and planes of vibrant colors.The Celtics' dynamic duo of Tatum and Brown look to lead the team to a championship, while their defensive specialist Jordan Walsh prepares to shut down the Sixers' Tyrese Maxey.Boston Today

The Boston Celtics are gearing up for the playoffs, with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown leading the way. Tatum is eager to make his postseason return after missing last year's playoffs due to an Achilles injury. The team believes the long-standing partnership between Tatum and Brown continues to improve, as they have both moved into the top 10 on the franchise's career scoring list. Additionally, defensive specialist Jordan Walsh is looking forward to the challenge of guarding Sixers guard Tyrese Maxey in the playoffs.

Why it matters

The Celtics have been one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference for several years, and their success has largely been driven by the duo of Tatum and Brown. Their continued growth and chemistry will be crucial as the team aims to win its first championship since 2024. The team's defensive prowess, highlighted by Walsh's ability to shut down opposing guards, could also give them an edge in the playoffs.

The details

Tatum missed the majority of last season after suffering an Achilles injury in the playoffs, but he has worked hard to return to form this year. Despite not being fully back to 100%, Tatum has been productive, averaging 21.8 points, 10 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in the 16 games he played during the regular season. The Celtics went 13-3 with Tatum in the lineup and outscored opponents by 10.5 points per 100 possessions when he was on the court. Meanwhile, Tatum's long-time teammate Jaylen Brown has also continued to improve, and the duo has moved into the top 10 on the Celtics' career scoring list. On the defensive end, Jordan Walsh has proven to be a valuable asset, holding Sixers guard Tyrese Maxey to just 1-of-9 shooting in a November matchup. Walsh is eager to face Maxey again in the playoffs, focusing on taking away the guard's tendencies and forcing him to go to his second or third option.

  • Tatum suffered his Achilles injury in the playoffs last May.
  • Tatum played in 16 regular season games this year.
  • The Celtics will face the Sixers in the playoffs, starting on Sunday.

The players

Jayson Tatum

A star forward for the Boston Celtics who missed the majority of last season due to an Achilles injury, but has worked hard to return to form this year.

Jaylen Brown

Tatum's long-time teammate and fellow star forward for the Boston Celtics, who has continued to improve and has moved into the top 10 on the franchise's career scoring list.

Jordan Walsh

A defensive specialist for the Boston Celtics who has proven to be effective at shutting down opposing guards, including holding Sixers guard Tyrese Maxey to 1-of-9 shooting in a November game.

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What they’re saying

“I didn't even know if I was going to play this year, so I get the opportunity to be a part of the team and play in the playoffs. I couldn't be more grateful.”

— Jayson Tatum

“I think it's great, it's been a historic sort of run. We were able to deliver a championship in 2024. Unfortunately we had our opportunities in the past that got away from us, but we've been right there for a long amount of time. We gained a lot of experience. I personally gained a lot of experience. It's been a pleasure.”

— Jaylen Brown

“Just taking away tendencies and then knowing the small things that get under his skin. But I think the biggest thing is, like I've been saying all year, not letting the guy do what they want to do. Make them go to their second option, their third option, their second move, stuff like that.”

— Jordan Walsh

What’s next

The Celtics will face the Sixers in the first round of the playoffs, with Game 1 scheduled for Sunday.

The takeaway

The Celtics' success in the playoffs will hinge on the continued growth and chemistry of their star duo of Tatum and Brown, as well as the defensive prowess of players like Jordan Walsh. If they can stay healthy and execute their game plan, the Celtics have a strong chance of winning their first championship in two years.