The Boston Celtics have been one of the NBA’s biggest surprises in 2025-26, sitting third in the Eastern Conference at 20-12 despite Jayson Tatum missing the entire season so far due to an Achilles injury. Jaylen Brown has stepped up as a true No. 1 option, Payton Pritchard has emerged as a reliable starting point guard, and role players like Anfernee Simons have elevated their games. The team has played above expectations, blending elite offense (fourth-best in the league) with solid defense.
Tatum is expected to return at some point this year, potentially giving Boston the biggest “midseason addition” possible—short of a blockbuster like Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Joe Mazzulla’s Message to Anfernee Simons: More Physicality Needed
Simons, acquired in an offseason trade from Portland, has been a key piece off the bench. After a win over the Utah Jazz, head coach Joe Mazzulla praised his two-way play but emphasized the need for consistency:
“I thought Anf was great tonight on both ends of the floor… When we get that version of him, it makes us a different team.”
Defense remains Simons’ biggest question mark. As a smaller guard, he struggles against bigger opponents, but his advanced stats are career-best: highest offensive rating ever and second-best defensive rating. On an expiring contract, Simons is auditioning for his next deal—proving he can be more than a scoring threat (elite 3-point shooter).
Why No Major Trades Are Likely
With Tatum’s return on the horizon, the Celtics view him as their “big acquisition.” Adding him healthy would boost both ends dramatically.
Boston is unlikely to make significant moves at the February 5 deadline:
They’re already deep and performing well.Any big addition risks pushing them back into the second apron (luxury tax penalties).The only plausible trade? One that reduces payroll and moves them out of the tax entirely.
The focus is internal: integrate Tatum, maintain health, and let Brown/Simons/Pritchard continue overperforming.
The Bigger Picture
This Celtics team has exceeded expectations without their best player. Tatum’s return could vault them from surprise contender to favorite—especially in an East without a clear dominant force.
No splashy trades needed. Boston’s “addition” is already on the roster.
Celtics Nation: Enjoy the ride—JB is carrying, and JT’s coming back. The real fun starts soon.