Celtics projected to finish fifth in Eastern Conference by ESPN

ESPN has projected the Boston Celtics to see a drop in performance for the 2026-27 season, finishing fifth with a 48-34 record. This projection would mark Boston's fewest wins since the 2020-21 season when they went 36-36. The team's success heavily relies on the health of Jayson Tatum and offseason acquisition Paul George. Last season, the Celtics won 56 games, securing the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference, but lost key player Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers in a trade. The Eastern Conference remains competitive, with teams like the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and 76ers also bolstering their rosters this offseason.

• 2:12 PMYahoo Sports — Celtics Projected to End Impressive 5-Year Streak by ESPN