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Chris Mannix: The Celtics Are Closer Than Ever to Trading Jaylen Brown
Sports Illustrated • • general
Key Points:
- Celtics coach Brad Stevens avoided giving a clear answer on Jaylen Brown’s future with the team during a post-first round media session, emphasizing Brown’s value but not confirming his roster status next season.
- Boston has been actively pursuing a big man, including attempting to trade Brown and draft picks for Giannis Antetokounmpo, but the Bucks declined and accepted a deal with Miami instead.
- Trade discussions involving Brown have been ongoing since he was drafted in 2016, but the current talks feel more urgent due to the Celtics’ need to improve frontcourt depth after a disappointing playoff exit.
- Despite the success of the Tatum-Brown duo, the Celtics appear willing to consider breaking up the partnership to address roster weaknesses, with potential trade targets including Evan Mobley and other All-Star big men.
- Brown’s contract situation gives the Celtics leverage, but his potential demand for a lucrative extension and reaction to trade rumors could complicate negotiations and the team’s future plans.
