Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury puts Jaylen Brown on the focal point for the Celtics as Boston opens training camp with Brown assuming a larger scoring and playmaking role. Visuals from camp show Brown embracing a heavier usage load, a natural implication as Boston waits on Tatum’s recovery. The preseason clash with the Memphis Grizzlies will be a key early indicator of how Brown translates increased volume into efficient fantasy production, with the roster around him needing to fill gaps.

Fantasy managers should monitor Brown’s shot volume, assist pace, and efficiency as the season nears. If he sustains a high usage rate and remains efficient, Brown could carry lineups early, while answering questions about depth and secondary scorers as the Celtics navigate the absence of their star wing.

Jayson Tatum returned to Cameron Indoor Stadium for Countdown to Craziness, joining Duke head coach Jon Scheyer, Scheyer’s son Deuce, Amile Jefferson, and five-star recruits Jordan Smith Jr. and Cam Williams. The moment highlighted Duke’s enduring connection to the NBA, elevating the program’s recruiting appeal and signaling a strong pro-to-college pipeline as top prospects eye Duke.

The appearance underscored Scheyer’s recruiting acumen and the value of Duke alumni in mentoring and inspiring the next generation, with Tatum’s success providing a tangible blueprint for players hoping to translate college development into elite NBA careers.

Ten stat-based predictions shape Boston's season: Payton Pritchard should push his assists above five per game as he expands his playmaking role. Jaylen Brown eyes top-five scoring, while Anfernee Simons could emerge as a dynamic secondary scorer. Derrick White projects higher defensive impact, Neemias Queta earns 20+ minutes, and Boston nets a less prolific rebounding season.

Expect volatility: five-game win and five-game losing streaks, a possible late return for Jayson Tatum if contention demands it, and a 44-38 finish to grab the 6 seed. The Celtics won’t lead the league in 3s, but a more versatile attack should keep them dangerous in a crowded East.