Celtics Given Bold Prediction That Would Make Jaylen Brown Trade Sting Less

The Boston Celtics are projected by Bleacher Report to have a winning season in 2026-27 despite losing star player Jaylen Brown. The publication anticipates the Celtics to go 52-30 and contend for the top seed in the Eastern Conference. Notably, Bleacher Report believes the team could even be better in the upcoming season than they were last year.

The infrastructure built around Jayson Tatum, who is projected to be at 100 percent from the start of the season, appears strong. Mitchell Robinson, a significant upgrade at the 5, is also expected to stay healthy. Paul George, while not as talented as Brown, is a reliable three-point shooter and a more dependable player.

The Celtics' win total of 50 or more games since the 2020-21 season would mark a new high for the franchise. Even without Brown's presence due to his trade, the team has managed to remain competitive. Boston's 56-26 record last season, despite Brown's absence, was powered by Tatum's breakout year.

The main offseason addition was Mitchell Robinson, who provides crucial center depth and is one of the best offensive rebounders in NBA history. In comparison, Bleacher Report projects the Philadelphia 76ers and defending champions New York Knicks to finish with 50-32 records. The Detroit Pistons are the only other Eastern Conference team expected to reach the 50-win mark.