The 76ers’ blockbuster swing for Jaylen Brown looks even wilder when you trace the path it took to get there. Boston sending its Finals MVP to Philadelphia was already a jaw-dropper, but Minnesota also played a key part in making the deal happen.
That detail came out through The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski during a recent appearance on the Celtics Daily Podcast. According to Krawczynski, the Timberwolves wanted to pair Anthony Edwards with Brown, but Boston asked for both Rudy Gobert and Naz Reid in return. Minnesota passed on that price tag, deciding it was too steep.
Instead, the Wolves moved on and pursued LaMelo Ball, while the Celtics ultimately sent Brown to the 76ers.
Minnesota was clearly in the market for a major retool around Edwards after three straight postseason exits, even if those seasons still ended with respectable finishes. Ball gives them a new star to build around, and he now joins Edwards in what should be an explosive backcourt.
Boston, meanwhile, had to settle for a return from Philadelphia built around Paul George and draft capital. That package is a far cry from keeping Brown, and it leaves the Celtics looking a step below where they were before the move. Brown had been the player carrying a huge load last season with Jayson Tatum sidelined for most of it.
For Philadelphia, the result is a massive boost. Adding Brown gives the 76ers another elite piece and strengthens their case as one of the top championship contenders. And in a strange way, that whole setup only became possible because Minnesota drew the line at Boston’s asking price and turned its attention elsewhere.
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