4. Boston Celtics
The Boston Celtics haven’t been the most consistent of contenders in the Eastern Conference this season, but when they’re playing at a high level this is a team that has proven that they can play and compete with any team in the league. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown continue to impress while Kemba Walker (coming off an injury) looks better with every passing game.
On paper, it seems like this is a team whose ceiling is at an Eastern Conference Finals appearance. This roster still feels a year away from potentially contending for a championship. Nevertheless, if the bracket falls the right way, there’s a chance that the Celtics could make an NBA Finals run this season.
If so, they’re going to need big performances from their big three along with great game plan implementation from Brad Stevens and the coaching staff. Oh, and they’re also going to need a break here and there.
The Celtics are dangerous, but could very much still be a year away from championship success.