As the 2025 NBA playoffs unfolded, the Boston Celtics were heavily favored to defend their title, aiming for consecutive championships last achieved in 1969. However, their aspirations took a hit when Jayson Tatum suffered a devastating Achilles injury during their shocking second-round exit against the New York Knicks, sidelining him for most, if not all, of the upcoming season.

Tatum's regular-season performance solidified his status as a franchise cornerstone, averaging 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 6.0 assists, alongside his sixth consecutive All-Star selection and an All-NBA First Team nod. Despite a promising post-All-Star break surge, the Celtics faltered against the Knicks, losing critical games after Tatum's injury.

The 2025-26 season is shaping up to be a transitional year for Boston, complicating matters further as they traded away key players like Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis in an effort to reduce payroll. These moves underscore the challenges ahead for a team reeling from its star player's injury while attempting to build for the future.