For the first time since the 2020-21 season, the Boston Celtics will not be featured in the Eastern Conference Finals. Last year, they emerged victorious in the NBA Finals, but this year, they faced a surprising setback against the New York Knicks in the conference semifinals, losing the series 4-2. Adding to their woes, superstar forward Jayson Tatum suffered a torn Achilles during Game 4.

What went wrong for the Celtics? They had swept the Knicks in their regular-season meetings with an impressive average of 125 points per game. During a recent chat on “Mind the Game” with NBA great Steve Nash, LeBron James raised the possibility that the Celtics might have become bored, having consistently ranked among the top in the Eastern Conference for several seasons.

James noted, “It seems like they get a little bored because of how great they are,” referencing both Tatum and Jaylen Brown. He commented on how, at times, it seems the Celtics struggle with details and urgency on the court.

Nash concurred, indicating that this could be why the Celtics stumbled early in the series, losing by narrow margins despite holding significant leads in both Game 1 and Game 2.

The Knicks showcased their resolve and made crucial plays in tight situations, turning the series in their favor.

This unexpected turn has left many questioning the current trajectory of the Celtics and what adjustments they might need to make moving forward in their quest for another championship.