The Boston Celtics are dominating the postseason, just sweeping the Indiana Pacers and having dispatched the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat in just five games each. Despite Kristaps Porzingis being sidelined, he is expected to return by the finals if the Celtics advance.

Known for being a strong playoff contender over the past decade, the Celtics have often faltered despite their talent. Last year, as the second seed, they fell to the Miami Heat, led by the formidable Jimmy Butler, who thrives in playoff scenarios. In 2022, they held a 2-1 lead in the finals only to lose three straight games to the Golden State Warriors, who claimed the NBA championship.

The team has undergone several changes, added solid starters, and shuffled their bench to find the right combination. This year, they boast the deepest roster in the league, making it a prime opportunity to win it all. If they fail, Jaylen Brown, who has expressed dissatisfaction with Boston in past interviews, might leave despite his record-breaking contract as the highest-paid second option in NBA history. A mutual parting could be beneficial if this playoff run doesn’t succeed.

The Pacers, who have progressed partly due to injuries to key players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, and OG Anunoby, should be an easy matchup for the Celtics.

In the West, Dallas and Minnesota remain competitive, featuring stars like Luka Dončić, Kyrie Irving, Anthony Edwards, and Karl-Anthony Towns. However, given Boston’s depth and performance, anything less than a championship would necessitate significant changes to maintain their competitive edge.