Jaylen Brown has always been a team player, prioritizing victories over personal accolades. On the Boston Celtics, a team constantly in the championship conversation thanks to the dynamic duo of Brown and Jayson Tatum, sacrifice was often the name of the game.
But now, the spotlight is on Brown, and he's embracing the opportunity to elevate his game to new heights. Who wouldn't want a shot like that?
Marcus Smart recently shared his thoughts on Brown's expanded role this season.
"You're seeing Jaylen for who he truly is," Smart noted before the Celtics' commanding 111-89 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. "He's always had this talent, but sometimes it was overshadowed.
Now, without that shadow, his full potential is on display. He's showing everyone what he's capable of, just as he did when I was there."
Brown's performance this season speaks volumes. Averaging 29.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, 4.9 assists, and 1.0 steals per game, he's hitting nearly 50 percent of his shots. His aggressive drives to the basket and proficiency in the mid-range are turning heads, placing him among the league's elite in both categories.
This relentless approach is fueling Boston's offense, which ranks second in the NBA. Brown's evolution hasn't gone unnoticed, with JJ Redick praising his growth and dispelling myths about weaknesses in his game.
Brown's two-way brilliance and availability for 51 of 54 games earned him a starting spot in the NBA All-Star Game. His standout season is mirrored by the Celtics' impressive standing as second in the Eastern Conference, positioning them as genuine contenders.
Historically, only a handful of teams have managed to win the championship after losing 20 games before reaching 40 wins. If Boston clinches their next three games, they'll sit at 40-19, putting them in elite company.
And with Jayson Tatum potentially returning to bolster their title run, the Celtics could indeed defy expectations, making a strong case for the championship despite early setbacks.