The Boston Celtics will aim to secure a 2-0 series lead against the Orlando Magic on Wednesday and will need all hands on deck if they have any chance of winning back-to-back titles for the first time since 1969. Going into the playoff series, there were concerns about four-time All-Star Jaylen Brown’s fitness. Fortunately for the Celtics and their fanbase, Brown looks healthy and is set to suit up for Game 2 at the TD Garden.
Brown has been dealing with a bone bruise in his right knee for several weeks. He missed the Celtics final three games of the season and played his last regular season game on Apr. 8 against the New York Knicks. He did, however, start in Boston’s series opener against the Magic on Sunday, playing 30 minutes and contributing with 16 points, five rebounds, two assists and two steals.
Brown and Joe Mazzulla Provide Updates on Celtic Star’s Lingering Knee Issue
Going into the series, Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla made the following statement regarding Brown’s health:
“He was able to do everything, no limitations. He’s been great, physically, mentally, really preparing himself, ready to go. So [I] love the week that he had.”
Following the 103-86 Game 1 win over the Magic, Brown was asked about his health and if he had any issues going forward.
“Today was my first game back after a while. It’s the playoffs and it’s the best time of the year. This is what I live for,” said Brown. “I’m feeling a lot better, I am moving a lot better.”
Jaylen Brown with a positive injury update:
“I’m feeling a lot better, moving a lot better. So I think that's great. Some people definitely have been praying for me over the last couple weeks.”
(Q: @GwashburnGlobe) pic.twitter.com/7DCeBEhhEh
— Noa Dalzell 🏀 (@NoaDalzell)
Brown is not listed on the Celtics injury report for Wednesday’s game.
Since Apr. 8, Brown has played just 30 minutes of basketball, so he has had plenty of time to rest and heal up. Celtics fans would have been thrilled to see him back on the court this weekend, with the 28-year-old putting together a solid performance.
Since being drafted by the Celtics as the No. 3 pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, Brown has become one of the most complete players in the league. Over the regular season, Brown ranked second on the Celtic roster in points (22.2) and third in assists (4.8).
Brown Was Named the 2024 NBA Finals MVP Producing Solid Numbers on the Offensive and Defensive Front
Brown was also instrumental in leading the Celtics to their first title in 16 seasons last year. That ended a lengthy championship drought for an organization and loyal fanbase that has high expectations going into every season.
Brown was outstanding in the finals against the Dallas Mavericks, averaging 20.8 points, 5.4 rebounds and 5.0 assists over the five-game series. His standout performance came in Game 3 of the series, where he finished with 30 points, eight rebounds, eight assists and a steal to lead Boston to a vital 106-99 win. Brown was rewarded for his hard work by being named the 2024 NBA Finals MVP.
