Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics
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Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics
The Boston Celtics lost to the Detroit Pistons 104-103 on Monday night.
Jaylen Brown scored 32 points and had a good look to win it at the buzzer. The shot did not fall. Boston dropped to 26-16, their second one-possession loss in eight days.
But the game itself was not the only storyline Monday. Earlier in the day, Brown received news that validated what he has done all season. He was named an All-Star starter for the first time in his career.
Before tip-off in Detroit, Pistons head coach J.B. Bickerstaff was asked about Brown’s season. His response carried weight.
Bickerstaff’s Words On Brown
Bickerstaff did not hold back when discussing what Brown has accomplished this year.
“He’s a hell of a basketball player,” Bickerstaff said. “A guy you talk about having to do certain things and having to carry the load of scoring the way that he has, his usage rate, like, all eyes on him defensively, and he’s still figuring out a way to impact winning.”
That acknowledgment carries weight coming from an opposing coach. And what he sees is a player shouldering massive responsibility while keeping his team competitive.
“I think he’s playing some of the best basketball that I’ve seen him play,” Bickerstaff continued. “But we always, as coaches, find impactful, is how it impacts winning. And that’s what he’s done, is shoulder that burden, but hasn’t made it just about himself. He’s figured out a way to help this team continue to get better and win games.”
That last part stands out. Brown’s usage rate is elite-level. Defenses key on him every possession. And yet, he has not forced the issue. He has elevated his teammates. He has kept Boston’s offense balanced.
Bobby Krivitsky
I asked Pistons head coach J.B. Bickerstaff what stands out to him about Jaylen Brown’s performance while shouldering more responsibility.
“He’s a hell of a basketball player. A guy you talk about having to do certain things and having to carry the load of scoring the way that
What Brown’s Numbers Reveal
Brown is averaging 29.8 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game this season.
His efficiency has not dropped despite the increased volume. Brown is shooting 48.7% from the field, 36.3% from three, and 79.1% from the free-throw line. He ranks in the top five in the NBA for both drives per game and mid-range shots made.
The Celtics star has also been named an All-Star four times previously, but always as a reserve. Monday’s announcement changed that. He will start in the All-Star Game next month in Los Angeles for Team USA.
Brown addressed the All-Star selection after Monday’s game.
“I think that’s what it matters most for; my support group,” Brown said. “I think it means a lot to them to see me celebrated in that light. But I’ve always felt, regardless of what people may think or whatever that I’ve been one of the better players in this game.”
That confidence has driven Brown all season. He has believed he belongs at this level for years. Now, the recognition is catching up.
Why Brown’s Season Matters For The Celtics
The context around Brown’s season matters as much as the statistics.
Jayson Tatum has been sidelined all year recovering from a ruptured Achilles. Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford, and Jrue Holiday all departed in the offseason. The Celtics were not expected to contend. They were supposed to rebuild. They were supposed to struggle.
Instead, the Celtics sit 26-16 with the second-best record in the Eastern Conference.
Brown has been the constant. He has carried the scoring load without forcing shots. He has defended at a high level. And now, he is being rewarded with his first All-Star starting nod.
Bickerstaff’s comments before Monday’s game validated what everyone watching has already seen. Brown is playing at an elite level. And he is doing it the right way.
Final Word for the Celtics
Brown has always believed he belonged among the league’s elite. That confidence has never wavered, even when recognition lagged behind performance.
Now, the gap is closing. All-Star starter. Top-five MVP candidate. Finals MVP. And validation from coaches around the league who see what he does every night.
Monday’s loss will sting for a day or two. But the larger story remains unchanged. Brown is playing the best basketball of his career. And it is not just Celtics fans noticing anymore.