After a tough 103-84 loss to the Denver Nuggets, the Boston Celtics find themselves in a unique position regarding the famed 40-20 rule. This guideline, famously endorsed by 13-time NBA champion Phil Jackson, suggests that a team should win 40 games before losing 20 to be considered a championship contender. Historically, 40 of the last 44 NBA champions have met this benchmark.
Shams on Jayson Tatum’s recovery:
— Daniel Donabedian (@danield1214) February 26, 2026
“It’s about him putting together a number of practices and scrimmages to build up…the strength in his calves.”
“(Tatum is) in the driver's seat. He's going to be the one to make the decision. The team has not put any pressure on him.” https://t.co/f3zdRJiQ0b
The Celtics missed the mark this season, but there's more to the story than meets the eye. They reached 20 losses in 58 games, all without their star forward Jayson Tatum, who’s been sidelined with a ruptured Achilles. Tatum, a six-time All-Star and 2024 NBA champion, is expected to return before the season ends, which could be a game-changer for Boston.
Despite Tatum's absence, the Celtics have shown resilience. Many analysts counted them out after losing key players like Al Horford, Kristaps Porzingis, Luke Kornet, and Jrue Holiday.
However, the team has rallied, with young talents like rookie Hugo Gonzalez and third-year wing Jordan Walsh stepping up. Veterans have also risen to the occasion, with Jaylen Brown delivering some of the best performances of his career, setting new personal bests in points, rebounds, and assists.
With a 38-20 record, the Celtics have proven they can compete. Their recent form has been impressive, winning nine of their last 10 games before the Nuggets defeat. The potential return of Tatum, who’s been participating in full team scrimmages, adds another layer of optimism for the Celtics' playoff push.
Bucks win game 5 over the Hawks without Giannis 😤
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) July 2, 2021
Lopez: 33 PTS (playoff career-high) | 7 REB
Portis: 22 PTS (playoff career-high) | 8 REB
MIL leads 3-2. pic.twitter.com/aOfI7GiGXq
The 2020-21 Milwaukee Bucks serve as a reminder that the 40-20 rule isn't the only path to a championship. They fell short of this benchmark but went on to win the NBA Finals. Similarly, the Celtics, currently holding the second seed in the East, are well-positioned for a deep playoff run.
Boston's strong net rating and recent performances make them a formidable team. They’re not just meeting statistical expectations but passing the all-important eye test. With Tatum back in the lineup, the Celtics could become serious contenders in the Eastern Conference, challenging even the toughest opponents.
While they may not be the favorites, the Celtics have the pieces and the pedigree to make a significant impact this postseason, regardless of what the 40-20 rule might suggest.
NBA STANDINGS UPDATE ‼️
— NBA (@NBA) February 26, 2026
▪️ DET reclaims NBA's best record
▪️ SAS wins their 10th in a row
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