The 2026 Autopsy Reports: Celtics, Nuggets, Rockets

In this episode of The Baseline NBA Podcast, we open up The Autopsy Report on three teams whose playoff exits raised more questions than answers — the Boston Celtics, Denver Nuggets, and Houston Rockets. Each entered the postseason with expectations, but all three were unceremoniously bounced in the first round, forcing a hard look at roster construction, star leadership, coaching decisions, and long-term direction.
What went wrong for Boston? Are Denver’s championship windows tightening? And did Houston’s young core hit a ceiling sooner than expected? We break down the key turning points, underperformances, and structural flaws that led to their early exits — and more importantly, what comes next. From potential roster moves and offseason priorities to franchise-defining decisions, this is a full-scale evaluation of three teams at a crossroads.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-baseline-nba-podcast--3677698/support.

• Visit: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS and use code CLNS and get $50 in lineups.

• This show was sponsored in part by Raycon: Visit https://buyraycon.com/baseline for 20% off new buds!

• Get NBA League Pass: https://link.nba.com/LP19MG
•  Looking to book a vacation? Our travel partner Exquiste Travel & Tours has you covered: Call 954-228-5479 or visit https://exquisitetravelandtours.com/
• Discover our favorite podcast gear & shop our studio must-haves on our Amazon Affiliate page! https://www.amazon.com/shop/19mediagroup
• Want to join the conversation or invite us to your platform? Budget-friendly collaborations welcome! https://bit.ly/19Guest
• Follow The Baseline on X: https://twitter.com/nbabaseline
• Follow The Baseline on IG: https://instagram.com/nba_baseline