NBA Writer Identifies Celtics’ X-Factor, Says Boston Can Catch Pistons originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
In an article released Tuesday entitled, “Biggest X-Factors Deciding the 2026 NBA Playoff Race”, Bleacher Report’s Dan Favale focused on Jayson Tatum when it came time to discuss the Boston Celtics.
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“Tatum looks pretty darn good for someone with fewer than 10 games into his return from a ruptured right Achilles,” Favale wrote. “He is not turning corners or getting into his pull-up threes as quickly, but appears comfortable getting to his spots both on- and off-ball overall.”
“If his efficiency from the floor and ability to draw shooting fouls march closer to previous heights, the Celtics won’t just fend off the New York Knicks for the East’s No. 2 seed,” Favale added. “They’ll have a chance to catch the Pistons for first place.”
Entering Tuesday, the Celts held just a half-game lead over the New York Knicks. Boston was also five games back of the Pistons.
The Knicks have 10 games left on their regular season schedule; the Celtics and Pistons each have 11.
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Boston and New York still have one matchup remaining. They’ll do battle on April 9 at Madison Square Garden — a game that could have real seeding implications.
For now, the Celtics are focused on vanquishing the Oklahoma City Thunder, who will pull up to TD Garden on Wednesday night for a cross-conference clash.
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