April 7, 2026, 7:35 p.m. ET
BOSTON — Despite earning an NBA championship ring in his rookie year, Boston Celtics talent Jordan Walsh lacks extensive playoff experience. Indeed, over his first two seasons with the C’s, he only participated in 8 postseason games, averaging just over 3 minutes per appearance during that brief period.
The 2026 NBA Playoffs are poised to be a different scenario. Walsh is currently achieving career-best statistics across the board, and even with the return of Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum (who is an obvious starter ahead of the third-year player), Walsh is logging more playing time than in previous campaigns. This increased role could signal a more significant part for him in the upcoming postseason, a prospect that has Celtics star Jaylen Brown enthusiastic for his teammate.
“Jordan has truly had a fantastic year,” Brown remarked during his Twitch broadcast. “Now it’s like Christmas time. The playoffs are the highlight of the year. Celtics legends are forged during the playoffs.”
However, the Celtics’ longest-tenured player wasn’t just addressing his Twitch chat. He was speaking directly to Walsh—who was also on the stream—before posing a crucial question:
“Are you prepared for the challenge, my friend?” Brown inquired of the 22-year-old.
Walsh’s reply was instantaneous, conveying clear excitement in his tone.
“Absolutely,” he responded. “I’ve been anticipating this one. Year 3 — I’ve truly been looking forward to this.”
With only four games remaining in the regular season, the Celtics currently hold the second seed in the Eastern Conference and will enter the playoffs in either that position or, at minimum, the third seed. Expectations for Boston are once again sky-high, and Walsh appeared thrilled at the chance to perform on the grandest stage.
“After winning the first year, I’ve been incredibly eager to get back,” he confessed. “This time I’ll have an opportunity to make an impact on the game, oh yes…This is the very moment I’ve been dreaming of.”
While Walsh’s specific playing time in the playoffs remains to be determined, he has proven his worth as a tenacious defensive specialist capable of hounding an opposing team’s star. And though the former second-round draft pick is still developing, his growth this season has been unmistakable.
“I’m observing Jordan playing with the maturity of a grown man,” Brown commented during a postgame press conference in early December. “It’s remarkable to witness him emerge from his shell and play with aggression.”
Before Walsh can demonstrate his abilities in the postseason, he’ll have some time to prepare as the Celtics’ regular season draws to a close. His next chance arrives on Tuesday night when the C’s host the 43-36 Charlotte Hornets — a team desperate to escape the Play-In Tournament (and potentially avoid a first-round matchup with the Celtics).
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