Stevens signals fresh chapter for Celtics

Brad Stevens believes the Boston Celtics have officially entered a forward‑looking phase, embracing a new identity after a summer of sweeping changes. The arrivals of Paul George and Mike Conley, introduced on September 15 alongside Stevens and coach Joe Mazzulla, marked the beginning of a renewed cycle for the 2026‑27 season.

Stevens stressed that the organization chose not to cling to last year’s disappointment or Jaylen Brown’s departure, instead committing to a clean slate. He described a symbolic moment during the team’s season launch: a photo of the parquet being rebuilt, a reminder that each year starts as a blank canvas awaiting a new story. Boston is coming off a 56‑26 campaign and a painful first‑round exit to Philadelphia, followed by the trade sending Brown to the 76ers for George and future picks. With added veterans and young contributors, Stevens expressed confidence, saying he genuinely likes the group and expects a strong team.