Celtics Enter Playoffs Seeking First Repeat Title Since 2018

The Boston Celtics are preparing to defend their NBA championship, aiming to become the first team to repeat since the Golden State Warriors in 2018. Despite key players like Jrue Holiday and Jaylen Brown dealing with recent injuries, both are trending toward full health as the playoffs begin. Star Jayson Tatum emphasized that last season's title is in the past and the focus is on the new challenge ahead. The Celtics secured a second consecutive 60-win season, but the Eastern Conference features strong competition, including an improved Cleveland Cavaliers squad. Additionally, the potential return of Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard from injury could pose a significant challenge if the Celtics face Milwaukee later in the postseason. Historically, repeating as NBA champions has been rare for Boston, with the last occurrence in the Bill Russell era of the 1960s.