The Boston Celtics were handed a C+ grade for their 2026 NBA offseason, a rating that reflects significant risk following the trade of All-Star forward Jaylen Brown.
The defining move of Boston's summer was trading Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers. In return, the Celtics acquired veteran forward Paul George, center Mitchell Robinson, and guard Mike Conley. The deal was the central focus of executive Brad Stevens's activity. It reshaped the roster's core around Jayson Tatum and introduced new, experienced pieces.
Analyst Grant Hughes explained the grade hinges on faith in Stevens's judgment. He noted the trade carried real risk, potentially moving Boston out of the top tier of title contenders. The C+ represents a bet that the Celtics front office understands their timeline better than outside observers do.
Paul George's health and performance are now central to Boston's ceiling. He played just 78 regular season games across the two years prior to the trade. If he stays on the court, George provides a high-level secondary perimeter scorer next to Tatum. That combination could keep the Celtics' offense among the league's best.
But counting on George for heavy minutes is a gamble. His ability to defend multiple positions and create his own shot is vital. Without a reliable version of him, the offensive burden on Tatum increases dramatically. The trade's success or failure will be judged almost entirely on George's availability and impact.
The early returns in the 2025-26 season have been spectacular.
All eyes will be on the playoffs. The regular season wins are encouraging, but the offseason moves were made for postseason success. The pressure is on George, Conley, and Robinson to perform when games slow down and defenses tighten. Stevens's gamble will be fully tested then.
The C+ grade feels accurate for a risky summer. It's not an F because of Stevens's strong track record. It's not an A because trading a star in his prime for older veterans is inherently dangerous. The final exam for this offseason grade won't be given until next June.
