Boston Celtics face high expectations despite roster changes

The Boston Celtics enter the 2026-27 NBA season facing questions regarding their championship potential following the trade of Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite the roster change, the team maintains a significant statistical trend under head coach Joe Mazzulla. In all four of his seasons leading the team, the Celtics have finished with a top-five offensive and defensive rating.

While this consistency has led to a high regular-season winning percentage, it has not always translated to postseason success. Under Mazzulla, the team holds the highest regular-season winning percentage in NBA history, but has experienced several early playoff exits.

Analysts suggest the Celtics could still be among the league's best in the regular season, potentially securing a top five or six record depending on the health of Jayson Tatum, Paul George, and Mitchell Robinson. The team's outlook also relies on the development of young players such as Baylor Scheierman, Ron Harper Jr., Jordan Walsh, and Hugo Gonzalez.