Jaylen Brown might not be a fan of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's on-court antics, but he’s certainly taken a page out of his playbook. Despite having a standout season, Brown isn't exactly getting superstar treatment from the referees.
With Jayson Tatum sidelined for much of the season, Brown has stepped up as the Boston Celtics' go-to guy. Not only is he lighting up the scoreboard, but he's also locking down opponents' top scorers.
In a recent matchup, Brown employed one of Gilgeous-Alexander's controversial moves, drawing a foul and sinking the basket. The grin he flashed afterward was priceless.
More importantly, Boston ended the Oklahoma City Thunder’s impressive 12-game winning streak with a 119-109 victory. Brown led the charge with 31 points, while Tatum contributed 19.
For OKC, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander put up 33 points, with Lu Dort adding 14. They felt the absence of Chet Holmgren, who managed 10 points and 5 rebounds.
Imagining these two teams in a seven-game series? Now that would be something to watch.
Brown, a four-time All-Star, has voiced his frustration over players manipulating games through foul baiting. He prides himself on earning his trips to the line the hard way.
However, Brown is evolving, finding new ways to draw fouls. Just over a week ago against the Phoenix Suns, he took 21 free throws, sinking 19-a personal best.
Is this a new chapter for Brown? It sure looks like it.
He’s putting up career numbers, averaging 28 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists per game. With Tatum back earlier than expected, the Celtics are looking formidable as the 2026 playoffs approach.