The Blockbuster Trade
The Boston Celtics made a massive move this offseason by trading former Finals MVP Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers on July 6. In exchange, Boston received 36-year-old forward Paul George, two first-round draft picks, and two second-round draft picks. This trade came after the Celtics missed out on Giannis Antetokounmpo, who joined the Miami Heat.
The decision to trade Brown shocked many fans. Brown spent 10 seasons in Boston, helping the team reach six Eastern Conference finals. However, the NBA's strict second apron financial rules forced the team to make tough budget decisions.
New Faces and the Injury Return
With Brown gone, the Celtics will rely heavily on Jayson Tatum. Tatum returned late last season from a torn Achilles injury suffered in the 2025 playoffs. This will be his first fully healthy season since that injury.
Tatum will have new teammates to work with. Along with George, Boston signed center Mitchell Robinson and guard Mike Conley. Robinson arrived from the rival New York Knicks in free agency. He is expected to boost the Celtics' defense and rebounding, which struggled in the recent playoffs. Boston also retained Neemias Queta, Jordan Walsh, and Ron Harper Jr., while losing Nikola Vucevic.
Questions and Expectations
There are many questions about how the team will perform. Paul George is an aging star who has played in 60 games just once in the past seven seasons. Some analysts have doubted the trade. Zach Kram gave the Celtics a C- grade for their offseason moves, suggesting they reduced their championship chances without saving much money.
However, if Tatum returns to his best form, Boston still has a strong chance. The team hopes to win at least 50 games for the sixth consecutive year under coach Joe Mazzulla. Mazzulla has built a consistent culture, never losing more than three games in a row during his three years in charge.
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