{
  "id": 3009556,
  "title": "ESPN Expert Makes Bold Celtics Prediction Before New Season",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/24/espn-expert-makes-bold-celtics-prediction-before-new-season",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-24T11:38:52.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/espn-expert-makes-bold-celtics-113852269.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "ESPN analyst Brian Windhorst made a bold prediction about the Boston Celtics before the new season. Last season, the Celtics finished second in the Eastern Conference but traded away star Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers for Paul George. Windhorst believes the Celtics could have a strong regular season and potentially even outperform the New York Knicks in the standings. This prediction hinges on George's 3-point shooting, as he shot 42% from beyond the arc after returning from a 25-game suspension last year. If he maintains that shooting percentage and plays as a floor-spacing forward, Windhorst believes the Celtics could be a strong team. However, there is no guarantee George's body will be up to the task. Windhorst also doubts the New York Knicks will be as healthy this season, giving Boston an edge. The Celtics' margin for error has decreased since trading away Brown, so George's shooting could be crucial for the Celtics to achieve their potential.",
  "summary": "Brian Windhorst believes the new-look Celtics could exceed expectations and even finish ahead of one of the East’s presumed contenders.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}