Joe Mazzulla pushed back on the idea that Celtics camp is unusually brutal, arguing that recency bias inflates the moment and that intensity isn’t uniquely higher this year. He insists the standard grind isn’t something new to Boston, and feelings shift with the day.

Derrick White called practice hard but fun, with plenty of competition and little downtime. Sam Cassell reportedly labeled this camp the toughest in 34 years, a claim Mazzulla says doesn’t change the season’s fundamentals. The chatter shapes early-season expectations for Boston’s rotation and usage in fantasy leagues.

Five safest targets for 2025 fantasy basketball anchor rosters: Jokic dominates across points, rebounds, assists, and efficiency with exceptional durability. Edwards delivers high-volume scoring and multi-category impact. Sabonis posts consistent double-doubles with solid efficiency. Derrick White provides reliable multi-category production in a reshaped Boston lineup. Coby White offers a high floor and solid three-point volume in Chicago. These safe bets form a strong foundation.

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.