The Boston Celtics are contemplating their strategy for the upcoming NBA season, especially with Jayson Tatum expected to miss the entirety of the 2025-26 season. This situation has led to discussions around whether the team should consider tanking to secure a better position in the draft amid trades involving veterans such as Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, aimed at financial flexibility.

As Boston appears unlikely to contend for a title with their current roster, the question arises: is tanking a viable option in a relatively weak Eastern Conference? The flattened lottery odds challenge conventional tanking strategies, prompting a deeper analysis of how far the Celtics would have to go to ensure the strategy pays off.