LeBron James sang Jaylen Brown’s praises after the Boston Celtics’ resounding 111-89 road win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday, calling for the star wing to garner MVP consideration.
Upon hearing James’ kind words, Brown returned the favor, referencing the four-time MVP’s standing among the NBA’s all-time greats.
Jaylen Brown Dubs LeBron James ‘Arguably the Best Player Ever’ After Celtics-Lakers Clash
For the second time this season, Boston handily took care of business against its premier interconference foe, cruising to a 22-point victory behind a physical defensive effort and standout performances from Brown and teammate Payton Pritchard.
The duo combined for 62 points, outscoring LA’s Big 3 of James, Luka Dončić, and Austin Reaves, who amassed 60 of their squad’s near-season-low 89 points.
Following Brown’s game-high 32-point showing, which lifted the Celtics to their eighth win in nine outings, James questioned why the 29-year-old isn’t generating more MVP buzz.
Boston (37-19) sits second in the Eastern Conference and fourth in the NBA despite Brown’s co-star, Jayson Tatum, having yet to suit up as he works his way back from a torn right Achilles tendon.
In Tatum’s absence, the five-time All-Star has taken his game to new heights, averaging a career-best 29.2 points per night through 51 appearances.
“This whole MVP thing, I don’t understand why his name is not getting talked about as well,” James began. “Like, nobody gave them a shot to start the season. And he’s averaging what, 30? Just under 30? It’s a popularity contest sometimes, I tell you.”
When informed that James made his MVP case, Brown took the news in stride, underscoring his all-around impact, durability, and leadership for the Celtics.
“I feel like I’m the best two-way player in the world,” Brown asserted. “I play both ends on the court. Night to night, I’m available, which is hard to do. I’m a leader. I help lead my team, empower my team to come out and play confidently, stuff that doesn’t always show up on the analytics. And I’m a winner. I come out and try to win every single night. So, I’m grateful.”
Brown also noted that James’ legacy as “arguably” the league’s preeminent GOAT candidate makes his endorsement extra meaningful.
“It’s an honor to play the Celtics-Lakers rivalry. It’s an honor for LeBron, who’s arguably the best player to ever play the game, giving me some high praise,” Brown shared. “So, I’m just grateful.”
Jaylen Brown reacts to LeBron James making his MVP case. pic.twitter.com/9Yomt84zcb
— StatHunter (@stat_hunter) February 23, 2026
With Tatum’s 2025-26 return still in play, combined with Brown’s ascent and Boston’s depth, the Celtics could be poised to defy the odds and return to the NBA Finals for the third time in five years.
