After a decade with the Boston Celtics, Jaylen Brown was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers for forward Paul George and draft picks. Brown became known as one of the NBA’s best players during his time in Boston, averaging 20.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.9 assists.
Now, he joins a Philadelphia team that many believe will become an odds-on favorite to win the NBA championship. Instead of starting his second decade in Massachusetts, Brown will suit up for a rival. Yet, when he heard the news of the initial trade, he provided a response that became unforgettable.
Philadelphia 76ers Star Jaylen Brown Discusses Boston Celtics Departure
In Boston, Brown won a championship and took home Finals MVP. When Jayson Tatum was injured, he stepped up, gaining serious MVP consideration last season. However, when told of the trade, he offered a unique reaction.
Jaylen Brown says when he first got traded he threw his phone across the room:
“When i first got traded i threw my phone across the room. Maxey reached out to me first. Said they are excited to have me. We talk damn near everyday. LeBron is active in our group chats, i think… pic.twitter.com/f8zmUMhIJL
— JayTakes (@SportsWithJay0) August 6, 2026
“When I first got traded, I just threw my phone across the room. Maxey reached out to me first. He said, ‘We’re excited to have you.’ We talk nearly everyday… LeBron is active in our group chats, I think everybody knows how incredible of an opportunity we have. But we also have to put in the work,” Brown said during his introductory press conference with the 76ers.
Initially, Brown was not the only one to be shocked when news of the trade broke. For decades, the two teams have been rivals, playing memorable playoff games and series.
While Brown was initially upset, the metaphorical writing was on the wall. His relationship with the Celtics front office apparently deteriorated over the past couple of years. Whenever rumors swirled about the team landing an elite player via trade, Brown’s name surfaced.
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In contrast, after years of hoping that center Joel Embiid would be healthy, the 76ers decided to construct a better team, a deeper starting lineup around the former MVP. After the Brown trade, the team landed perhaps the most-coveted free agent this summer, LeBron James. James’ arrival could unlock Brown’s game in various ways.
First, Brown can score at all three levels. As a result, James’ court vision will help him get open looks at the basket. Additionally, on the defensive end, Brown’s quick hands and ability to run the floor could help him score in transition. He left an uncertain situation in Boston for a presumably better one with the 76ers. How will that affect his game?
