It might surprise you to hear this, but the Boston Celtics’ recent spate of excellent play has them moving up — WAY up — some analytical models which attempt to track which teams are going to be standing when the 2022 NBA Playoffs end.
The model in question, FiveThirtyEight’s 2021-22 NBA Predictions, is updated after every game and using their forecast based on RAPTOR player ratings, sees the Celtics in a tie with the Los Angeles Clippers as being the fifth-most likely team to win the NBA title with 7% odds. Yes, you read that correctly. Currently, the Phoenix Suns sit in first place with a 17% shot, the Milwaukee Bucks second with 16%, the Utah Jazz third with 13% odds, and the Miami Heat just ahead of Boston and the Clips with an 8% chance.
The projection model also sees the Celtics with a 15% chance of making the Finals and an 86% shot at securing a place in the postseason.
