For the 2025-26 season, the Boston Celtics are experiencing a significant shift from the intense championship-or-bust mindset that characterized recent years. Despite lower external expectations, pressure remains within the organization, especially as they enter what’s being called a “gap year.” The team’s leadership, particularly the Brain Trust, frames pressure as a disguised opportunity and encourages everyone in the organization to embrace the challenges that come with their new roles this season.
So, who among the Celtics faces the greatest pressure or stands to seize the most opportunity this year? Brian Robb helps rank the top candidates from the Boston roster as of early August.
1. Brad Stevens: While it’s unclear if Stevens feels pressured, he recognizes his responsibility to guide the team forward. The Celtics’ 18 championship banners set a high standard, and Stevens must show that the franchise is actively progressing toward its goals during this transition. Important draft picks like Baylor Scheierman and Hugo Gonzalez are expected to develop, and Jordan Walsh needs to demonstrate more consistency in his third year. Stevens may even have to consider strategic setbacks if early season results don’t signal the Celtics as contenders, managing salary cap challenges and planning for a future when Tatum returns from injury.
2. Joe Matzra: Known for his success with a talented roster, Matzra faces the challenge of compensating for defensive losses like Jrue Holiday and Al Horford. With a reconfigured team and Tatum sidelined, it will be intriguing to see how Matzra adjusts the team’s style and optimizes the available talent, particularly with a revamped frontcourt and unanswered roles beyond Jalen Brown and Derrick White.
3. Jalen Brown: Brown continues to rise whenever more is demanded of him and is expected to step into a primary leadership role until Tatum recovers. This season will test if he can sustain All-NBA performance levels under intense defensive pressure, with Brown’s growth pivotal to the Celtics’ competitiveness.
4. Payton Pritchard: Though some expect Pritchard to remain a bench player, there’s interest in pushing him into a starting role to unlock his potential. His scoring bursts last season and ability to challenge larger opponents make this an important season for him to prove his value as a starter.
5. Nehemiah Keta: Just two years after being waived by the Sacramento Kings, Keta has impressed enough to earn a long-term Celtics contract. With key frontcourt players departing, this season presents a prime opportunity for the 26-year-old to establish himself as a reliable defender and rebounder, potentially following in the footsteps of former teammate Luke Cornett’s rise.
6. Sam Hauser: Beginning the first year of a four-year, $45 million deal, Hauser must validate this investment by improving his shooting efficiency and impact on the court.
7. Jordan Walsh: The 21-year-old second-round pick must build on his promising Summer League showing and capitalize on the minutes he gains during Tatum’s recovery to prove he can consistently contribute.
8. Amari Williams: As a two-way player with notable passing and shot-blocking skills, Williams has the potential to develop into a trusted big man for the Celtics. His ability to finish at the basket will be a key factor in his long-term prospects.
9. Garza Gap: With limited playing time since his rookie year, Garza will be expected to increase his minutes and work on improving his defense while showcasing his clear offensive talent.
10. Baylor Scheierman: Now entering his second year and turning 25, Scheierman showed promise late in his rookie season with his clever playmaking and three-point shooting. Like Walsh, he’ll need to make the most of his opportunities at the wing.
Fan Take: This season marks a critical juncture for the Celtics as they navigate rebuilding and redefining their identity amidst roster changes and injuries. Basketball fans should watch closely—how these key players grow and adapt could shape not only the future of the Celtics but also set a blueprint for managing transitions in elite NBA franchises.
