Celtics Facing Uncertain Season After Tatum's Injury, Key Roster Changes
The Boston Celtics are entering the 2025-26 season with lowered expectations after a tumultuous offseason marked by the loss of star forward Jayson Tatum to a devastating Achilles injury and several key roster departures.
Tatum's Recovery Timeline in Question
The 23-year-old Tatum suffered the ruptured Achilles tendon during the Celtics' playoff series against the New York Knicks last spring, putting his availability for the upcoming season very much in doubt. While Tatum has expressed optimism about his recovery, Celtics fans are bracing for the possibility that he may miss the entire campaign.
"I'm feeling good and working hard every day to get back on the court as soon as possible," Tatum said in a recent interview. "The medical staff has been great, and I'm doing everything I can to make sure I come back stronger than ever."
Key Roster Overhaul
In addition to Tatum's injury, the Celtics have undergone a significant roster makeover this offseason. All-Star guard Jaylen Brown was traded to the Atlanta Hawks, while veteran big man Al Horford was sent to the Philadelphia 76ers. Boston also lost Payton Pritchard and Luke Kornet in free agency.
The departures leave Tatum's backcourt mate Malcolm Brogdon as the Celtics' top remaining player, with young wings Jalen Johnson and Keegan Murray now expected to take on larger roles. Head coach Joe Mazzulla will have his work cut out for him blending these new pieces together.
Muted Expectations From NBA GMs
The Celtics' roster upheaval and Tatum's uncertain status have led to muted expectations around the league. In the annual NBA general managers survey, Boston was largely absent from the top rankings, with Mazzulla's coaching ability being one of the few bright spots.
"I think this team is way better than most assume," said The Athletic's Zach Harper. "Their style of play on random nights in the regular season is really difficult to handle. I think this team has a good chance to exceed expectations if they can stay healthy."
Pierce Arrested on Suspicion of DUI
Adding to the Celtics' offseason woes was the news that franchise legend Paul Pierce was arrested in Los Angeles on suspicion of driving under the influence. Pierce was found asleep at the wheel on a highway, with police responding to a multi-car crash in the area.
In a social media post, Pierce claimed he was simply "old" and "tired," not impaired, when officers discovered him. Nevertheless, the incident has cast a cloud over the former Finals MVP's post-playing career.
TL;DR
- Celtics star Jayson Tatum faces an uncertain recovery timeline after suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon in the playoffs
- Boston underwent a significant roster overhaul this offseason, trading away key players like Jaylen Brown and Al Horford
- NBA general managers have muted expectations for the Celtics, though some analysts believe they can exceed projections
- Franchise icon Paul Pierce was arrested on suspicion of DUI in Los Angeles, adding to Boston's offseason drama