ESPN predicts Boston Celtics will struggle during upcoming NBA season

Following a first-round playoff exit and the departure of Jaylen Brown, the Boston Celtics face skepticism from ESPN experts regarding their 2026-27 season outlook. The team, which lost a 3-1 series lead to the Philadelphia 76ers in May, recently acquired Paul George and signed Mitchell Robinson, Mike Conley, and Neemias Queta to reorganize the roster. Despite these additions, ESPN ranked the Celtics as the fifth most likely team to underperform this year. The list includes the Detroit Pistons, Golden State Warriors, and Miami Heat among other teams projected for regression. Insider forecasts also suggest Boston remains a candidate to pursue further roster changes before the upcoming trade deadline. The organization is currently attempting to re-establish its status as a contender after failing to capitalize on its No. 2 seed position in the Eastern Conference last season.

• 6:56 AMYahoo Sports — Boston Celtics Predicted to be Disappointing Team