The Boston Celtics are 13-4 over their last 17 games, and they're finally beginning to round into form and look like a truly formidable team that no one wants to play. As they've gotten back to their winning ways without Jayson Tatum, the Celtics have been playing in and winning close contests.
Since starting the season 5-7, Boston has gone undefeated (4-0) in games where the final differential was three points or less. Playing in close games and learning how to trust one another matters for a group with so many new faces, and being able to close out those games is the cherry on top for a team that's building true championship qualities.
It's clear that the Celtics have become much more composed in late-game situations. The offense has slowed down in a good way. Instead of forcing early shots, the Celtics have leaned into patient half-court possessions, trusting Jaylen Brown to create advantages and allowing the supporting cast to play off those openings. That composure simply was not there early in the season.
Defensively, the growth has been even more noticeable. Boston has consistently locked in over the final five minutes, shrinking the floor and communicating at a much higher level. The Celtics are switching with purpose and rebounding with urgency when it matters most. These are the types of details that separate teams that merely survive close games from those that expect to win them.
The Celtics are executing at a higher level down the stretch
Role players have stepped up as well. Derrick White has taken on more decision-making responsibility late, and the frontcourt has shown better discipline in protecting the rim without overhelping. These reps they are paying dividends now that the games are tightening up.
There's also a mental component at play. Early-season losses clearly lingered with this group, and that frustration seems to have sharpened their focus. When games get tight now, Boston appears much more confident and sure of their ability to get the job done.
This stretch has not erased the reality that the Celtics are still evolving, especially with Tatum sidelined. But learning how to execute under pressure without him will end up being one of the most valuable developments of their entire season. We know that championship teams are not built solely on talent, they're built on trust, good habits, and the ability to win games you probably shouldn't have won.
Right now, Boston is checking all of those boxes. If this team continues to thrive in close games, the rest of the league will have plenty of reason to take notice.