Celtics clinch playoff spot, still in play for top seed

The Celtics are in. Not that there was much doubt after, like, the fourth week of the season.

Boston (50-24) clinched a playoff spot with a win over the Hornets on Sunday and continues to sit near the top of the Eastern Conference standings. They trail the Pistons by four games for the East’s top seed.

Jayson Tatum handled the rest: 32 points. Eight assists. Just 31 minutes. Efficient and under control.

The Celtics have been steady all season. Sitting near the No. 2 spot, they’re right where they expected to be (evein if no one else really did).

Now it’s about positioning.