Jayson Tatum is feeling “much more confident” mentally and physically heading into the 2026-27 NBA season, and executives around the league are already calling the Boston Celtics the “TOP THREAT” to the Knicks. This isn’t just hype, either. His early return from injury should pay major dividends this season, setting the stage for what many, including Jeff Teague, believe could be a contender run.
Charleston Camp Setting The Tone for a Contender
The Celtics packed up and took their training camp down to Charleston, South Carolina, for a three-day practice session, and it looks like the change of scenery is doing some good. We’re talking yoga sessions, an “unlikely vet” making an impact, and new coaches getting integrated. Sam Cassell has been vocal about the team’s effort there, stressing the grind. Coach Joe Mazzulla has been right there, too, overseeing the practices with new additions like Mike Conley and Paul George in the mix. Payton Pritchard, for one, is already raving about a new free agent addition he’s seeing at camp, clearly digging the team-bonding vibe and soaking up knowledge from Conley. Even Jordan Walsh, a young guy who just joked about being an “NBA veteran” now, admitted to making his “biggest mistake” already this season, showing the intensity is real from day one. It’s clear Mazzulla’s blueprint is starting to show up in unexpected places, and the team’s getting after it.
Big Decisions Loom as Rookies Flash Potential
While Tatum’s health and the positive camp reports are huge, there are still some big pieces to lock down. The Celtics face a Payton Pritchard decision that could absolutely change things, with the team able to extend their point guard. Meanwhile, the rookie class is suddenly making noise, showing a real shot to help out early. Baylor Scheierman, for example, is giving the Celtics a lot of hope on the wing, and it’s for one clear reason. With Mitchell Robinson, Hugo González, and Dillon Mitchell putting in the work before practice, it’s obvious there’s a deep pool of talent ready to contribute. This early season buzz, with high praise coming from executive polls and the impact of Jalen Duren’s $200 million contract resolution being a win, shows this team isn’t messing around.
With Paul George and Tatum already facing their biggest camp tests, and the team’s preseason kicking off in Charleston, these early days are all about gelling and building that contender mentality. Keep an eye on the official schedule release, because if Tatum’s confidence is any indicator, this Celtics squad is going to be must-watch.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Celtics Blog.
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