Boston Celtics react to Jaylen Brown trade as team looks ahead

Boston forward Jayson Tatum told ESPN that the recent trade sending teammate Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers feels "weird" after nearly a decade of playing together. The deal sent Brown to Philadelphia in exchange for Paul George, two first‑round picks and two second‑round picks. Celtics fans expressed strong emotion on social media, with a six‑year‑old’s tearful reaction going viral.

Brown, the 2024 NBA Finals MVP, had been a central figure for the Celtics, anchoring the Atlantic Division with his scoring, defense and leadership. He helped Boston post a league‑best 64‑18 regular‑season record and reach the 2024 Finals. With the trade, the Celtics aim to integrate new pieces while defending their title, and Brown looks to make an impact with the 76ers in the Eastern Conference.