The Boston Celtics pulled off one of their gutsiest wins of the season Monday night, storming back from a 20-point hole to beat the Indiana Pacers 103-95. And at the center of it all - as he so often is - was Jaylen Brown, who once again reminded everyone why he’s one of the most dangerous two-way players in the league when he’s locked in.
Brown started the night slowly, just like the rest of the Celtics, who looked flat early against a Pacers team that’s been trying to find its footing. But as the game wore on, something shifted.
Brown found his rhythm, and once he did, Indiana had no answer. He finished with a game-high 31 points, adding nine rebounds and two assists - but the box score only tells part of the story.
What really flipped the switch? According to Brown, it wasn’t just adjustments or halftime speeches - it was a little extra motivation from the other side.
“Some of those dudes was talking trash over there … it kind of got me going a bit,” Brown said postgame. “The beauty of it is we’ve got a game in a couple days, and what makes it even more beautiful is you get to play the same team again. Some of them dudes over there, one dude in particular, was talking a little crazy, so I’m looking forward to the next one.”
He didn’t name names, but you can bet that message was received loud and clear in the Indiana locker room. And with a rematch coming up Friday, there’s already some extra spice brewing.
This is the version of Jaylen Brown that changes the trajectory of games - the version that doesn’t just score, but takes over. He didn’t just hit shots down the stretch; he imposed his will. Whether it was attacking the rim, pulling up in transition, or locking in defensively, Brown set the tone for a Celtics team that refused to fold, even when things looked bleak.
That resilience is becoming a theme for Boston this season. Even when the offense sputters or the energy dips, they’ve found ways to claw back - and more often than not, it’s Brown leading that charge. Monday night was just the latest example.
Now, with Friday’s rematch looming, expect a little extra edge from both sides. Brown clearly hasn’t forgotten the chirping. And if the Pacers didn’t know before, they’ve learned now: poking the bear might not be the best idea when that bear wears No. 7 in green and white.
Tip-off for Round 2 is set for 7 p.m. ET - and if Monday was any indication, we’re in for a fiery follow-up.