The Boston Celtics squandered a 3-1 series lead against the Philadelphia 76ers, losing the final three games and being eliminated from the playoffs. Their last defeat was particularly painful, as they lost 109-100 without star player Jayson Tatum.

What's next for Celtics after epic 3-1 series blunder vs. 76ers? originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Boston Celtics had what many deemed a safe 3-1 series lead over the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round of the playoffs.
It looked as though the 18-time NBA champions would take care of business and continue their 2026 playoff journey. However, Boston had other plans, as they lost the last three games of the series and were sent home by the 76ers before coming close to making a championship run.
Their last loss was undoubtedly the most devastating, as Boston, without Jayson Tatum (left knee stiffness), failed to make the necessary plays down the stretch to secure a series-clinching win over the Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid-led 76ers (they suffered a 109-100 loss).
Now that Bostonâs season has come to a close, thereâs no better time to tackle the question on every fan's mind: whatâs next for the Celtics after their first-round exit?
Well, Boston could easily explore the possibility of trading one or more of their stars, given their recent postseason struggles. Jaylen Brown, whoâs owed $57 million next season, likely is no longer an untouchable asset for the franchise.
The Celtics lost their last three games due to a combination of poor performance and the absence of Jayson Tatum, who was sidelined with knee stiffness.
The Celtics lost the series 4-3, with their final game ending in a 109-100 defeat.
The Celtics' early exit raises questions about their roster and strategy moving forward, especially after failing to capitalize on a strong series lead.
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The California productâs off-the-dribble scoring and playmaking reached an elevated level due to Tatumâs extended absence on the hardwood to start the year (he tore his Achilles in the playoffs last year).
Brown averaged 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game in the regular season, shooting 47.7% from the field and 34.7% from the field. Brown was productive again in the postseason, contributing 24.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.2 assists while connecting on 45.7% of his field goals and 42.4% of his three-point jumpers.
Needless to say, teams would be lining up to acquire Brown if he were to be made available by the Celtics this season, almost guaranteeing that Boston would receive a massive haul for the former NBA Finals MVP.
The same could likely be said about Derrick White, who averaged a career-best 16.5 points per game in the regular season and looked comfortable in a secondary playmaking role.
Itâll be interesting to see what the Celtics ultimately decide to do this offseason.
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