The Boston Celtics are a major talking point in the 2026-27 NBA GM survey, with head coach Joe Mazzulla and veteran guard Mike Conley receiving significant recognition from league executives. This comes as the team rides a wave of preseason success, most recently a 114-93 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on October 14, 2026.
General managers see the Celtics as a top-four team in the Eastern Conference, a big jump from their eighth-place prediction a year ago. Exactly 27% of voters placed Boston fourth, while only 7% gave them a shot at the top seed. The New York Knicks, with 60% of the vote, are the clear favorite to win the East. This ranking suggests the Celtics are respected but perhaps still underrated by their peers, even after strong preseason showings like a 144-106 rout of the Philadelphia 76ers on October 10.
Joe Mazzulla's work is highly regarded. He tied for first place as the best manager and motivator of people, sharing the 23% vote with Steve Kerr and Erik Spoelstra. Mazzulla also placed fifth for best in-game adjustments and got votes for best offensive and defensive schemes. Surprisingly, the reigning Coach of the Year got zero votes for the league's best overall coach. Assistant Sam Cassell, a frequent head coaching candidate, tied for fifth best assistant. The biggest win was for Mike Conley, who dominated the 'best future coach' category with 50% of the vote, while Derrick White also received mentions.
Jayson Tatum earned MVP votes after a strong return from an Achilles tear last season. He averaged 21.8 points, 10 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in 16 games played. With a full offseason of rest, his form in preseason, including a 124-113 win in Cleveland on October 8, has Celtics fans excited. Victor Wembanyama is the overwhelming MVP favorite with 77% of the vote, followed by Nikola Jokic and Anthony Edwards.
The immediate focus is the final preseason test, a road game against the Philadelphia 76ers on October 16, 2026. It's a chance to build more rhythm before the real games begin. The GM survey shows a team gaining respect across the board, from its coaching staff to its veteran leadership. The blend of tactical praise for Mazzulla and the proven on-court talent sets an intriguing stage for the year ahead.
