Brad Stevens explains Celtics' decision to trade Jaylen Brown

Boston Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens has provided insight into the offseason trade of Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers. Stevens explained that the decision was driven by a need to evaluate whether the team's current trajectory would lead to their ultimate goals.

In exchange for Brown, the Celtics received Paul George, two first-round draft picks (2028 and 2031), and two second-round picks (2028 and 2030). Stevens noted that the move was influenced by NBA apron rules, which create limitations on trades and future draft picks rather than just financial constraints. He emphasized the necessity of having a deep roster with high-level talent to remain competitive under these regulations.

The trade follows a season where the Celtics won 56 games despite Jayson Tatum missing significant time, but ultimately lost a first-round playoff series to the 76ers after blowing a 3-1 lead.