The Boston Celtics enter the postseason with momentum — and a strong endorsement from a veteran champion reinforces their standing as a favorite in the Eastern Conference.
Three-time NBA champion Danny Green is picking the Celtics to come out of the East, citing their chemistry, experience and continuity as defining advantages.
“The reason I picked the Celtics is because of that experience and that bond, that chemistry,” Green said during a conference call with NBA reporters. “That’s a big part of the playoffs.”
Celtics Begin Playoff Run Against 76ers
Boston will open its first-round playoff series against the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday, April 19, with games airing across ABC, NBC and Prime Video.
If the Celtics advance, a second-round matchup against the New York Knicks could await — a potential Eastern Conference semifinals showdown that Green believes could ultimately decide the East.
Boston’s Continuity Sets Them Apart
Green highlighted the importance of long-term chemistry, particularly in the backcourt and on the wing.
“That duo being together for nine years — you don’t see that often,” Green said. “To stay in one organization that long and build that connection is special.”
That continuity, he explained, becomes even more valuable in the postseason.
Jaylen Brown Embraces Long-Term Chemistry With Jayson Tatum
For Jaylen Brown, that chemistry is not just a talking point — it’s a defining strength.
“I think it’s great,” Brown said after a recent practice. “I think it’s been a historic sort of run.”
Brown and Jayson Tatum have played together for nearly their entire careers, forming one of the league’s most established duos.
“We were able to deliver a championship in 2024,” Brown said. “We’ve been right there for a long amount of time. We’ve gained a lot of experience.”
Brown emphasized that the journey — including past setbacks — has only strengthened the team’s bond.
“Everything isn’t always perfect, but it’s not supposed to be,” he said. “It’s a part of the journey.”
Statistically, Brown continues to perform at an elite level. He averaged 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds and 5.1 assists in 71 games this season, and 28.0 points, 5.9 rebounds and 5.5 assists in 13 games alongside Tatum, underscoring the duo’s continued effectiveness.
Jayson Tatum Embraces Playoff Return
GettyCeltics’ Jayson Tatum is beginning to find his groove since returning from his Achilles injury.
Tatum said his return from injury has come with both encouragement and perspective.
“I’m ready, it’s part of the progression,” Tatum said. “I started on a minute restriction and every couple of games it would go up as we geared up for the playoffs.”
Tatum admitted he has been somewhat surprised by how well he has played since returning.
“Short answer would be ‘yes,’” he said. “But when you’re not 100% yourself yet — it can be frustrating at times.”
In 16 games this season, Tatum averaged 21.8 points, 10.0 rebounds and 5.3 assists, though he has shot 41.1% from the field and 32.9% from three-point range.
Celtics Lean on Chemistry Entering Playoffs
Despite not being at full peak individually, Tatum emphasized the importance of team cohesion.
“My perspective has changed,” he said. “Now that I get that opportunity, I couldn’t be more happy.”
“It takes place every day,” he added of the team’s connection. “That’s what really special teams do.”
That mindset aligns with Green’s assessment — that chemistry, not just talent, could separate contenders.
Boston Positioned for Deep Playoff Run
Green acknowledged the New York Knicks as a legitimate threat but believes Boston’s cohesion gives them the edge.
“The Knicks have all the tools,” Green said. “But they’ve looked a little disconnected at times.”
With a proven core, championship experience and sustained chemistry, the Celtics appear well-positioned for another deep postseason run.
And if both teams advance, a potential second-round clash with the Knicks could ultimately test the very edge Green highlighted — whether continuity and chemistry outweigh raw talent.
Celtics’ Brown-Tatum Duo Earns Major Vote of Confidence From 3-Time NBA Champion