A Dominant Celtics Performance Sparks Candid Talk (Image Credits: Flickr)
Los Angeles – LeBron James offered high praise for Jaylen Brown after the Boston Celtics dominated the Lakers 111-89 on Sunday night at Crypto.com Arena.[1][2]
A Dominant Celtics Performance Sparks Candid Talk
Jaylen Brown led the charge with 32 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists in the blowout victory.[3] James, reflecting on the loss, turned his attention to Brown’s standout season. He questioned the lack of MVP buzz around the Celtics wing.
“JB is playing great basketball,” James said. “This whole MVP thing, I don’t understand why his name is not getting talked about.”[2] He highlighted how few expected Boston to thrive amid major roster upheaval, including Jayson Tatum’s season-ending Achilles injury and departures of key veterans like Jrue Holiday, Al Horford, and Kristaps Porzingis.[1]
Brown now averages a career-high 29.2 points per game, powering the Celtics to a 37-19 record and sole possession of second place in the Eastern Conference.[1] James called it a “popularity contest sometimes,” underscoring Brown’s leadership.
Addressing the Bronny Comments Head-On
Reporters pressed James on his longstanding relationship with Brown. He described it as “pretty respectful,” then paused before adding a pointed caveat.
“Besides the sh*t he said about Bronny at Summer League,” James noted.[2] The remark referenced a viral 2024 incident where Brown, seated courtside, appeared to tell WNBA stars Angel Reese and Kysre Gondrezick, “I don’t think Bronny is a pro.”[2]
James quickly moved past it. “But other than that, we’ve been alright,” he continued. “I think he went on social media and said something about it. It’s all good.”[2] Brown had indeed clarified his stance online, posting that Bronny possessed “all the tools” for NBA success and calling it a “flex” for LeBron to share the league with his son.[2]
Roots of Respect Trace Back a Decade
The exchange revealed deeper history between the stars. Brown recalled his NBA debut start on November 3, 2016, against James’ Cavaliers, where he scored 19 points despite a loss.
James approached the rookie afterward. “You’re going to be an All-Star one day – you’re going to be a great player,” he whispered.[1] At last weekend’s All-Star festivities, James reaffirmed that prediction with a smile, urging Brown to keep proving doubters wrong.
Brown cherished the endorsement. “It’s an honor for LeBron, who’s arguably the best player to ever play the game, giving me some high praise,” he said post-game.[1]
Brown’s Evolution and Leadership Shine
Brown emphasized his all-around impact. He claimed to be “the best two-way player in the world,” available nightly and leading with confidence.
“Stuff that doesn’t always show up on the analytics. And I’m a winner,” Brown added.[3]
- Averaging 29.2 points, career high
- Guiding Celtics to 37-19 despite injuries and turnover
- Consistent two-way presence
- Proven leader post-championship core
Key Takeaways:
- James balances critique with strong MVP support for Brown.
- The 2024 Bronny comment lingers but does not define their rapport.
- Mutual respect spans from 2016 rookie advice to 2026 praise.
James’ words underscore NBA rivalries laced with admiration, where family loyalty meets professional respect. As Brown carries Boston forward, LeBron’s nod could elevate his candidacy. What do you think of Brown’s MVP chances? Tell us in the comments.