Former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins doesn't think the Celtics need Jayson Tatum in order to win the 2026 NBA Finals.

While the Pistons remain at the top of the East standings, the Cavs and Celtics look like real threats in the latest NBA power rankings.

"I don't think anybody should be surprised at how good a season Jaylen Brown and Payton Pritchard are having," he said.

Jaylen Brown is questionable to play Tuesday as he deals with a right knee contusion.

Jaylen Brown led the Celtics to a 111-89 victory over LeBron James and the Lakers on Sunday. Here's what was said after the game.

It was the role players for Boston, led by Payton Pritchard and his 30 points, who sparked the Celtics' win.

Having met for a total of 103 regular-season games, the Boston Celtics hold the edge with 62 wins compared to the Denver Nuggets ’ 41. But surprisingly, it was Denver who had the last laugh with a 114-110 win on January 7, 2026. For the Celtics, it was Jaylen Brown, who was the lone warrior with 33 points.

Today in Boston Celtics history, the storied ball club traded iconic guard and future President of Basketball Operations Danny Ainge to the Kings in 1989.