Concerns are rising regarding Jaylen Brown's knee health as playoff time approaches. Despite his warrior mindset, recent performances have shown a marked decline in both his minutes and overall impact on the court. The Celtics are hopeful that he can recover sufficiently, especially given the relatively weak competition in the first round. Joe Mazzulla maintains confidence in Brown's work ethic and preparation, suggesting he could be ready for the playoffs, though concerns remain about his effectiveness at anything less than full health.

In terms of team depth, the Celtics are well-equipped to adjust should Brown fall short of expectations. Players like Jayson Tatum are poised to step up, but the postseason demands top-tier performances, raising questions about whether the Celtics can prevail without a fully healthy Brown. The competition in later rounds promises to be tougher, making Brown's playoff readiness critical for the Celtics' championship aspirations.