Jayson Tatum leads the new-look Celtics following Jaylen Brown's surprising trade to Philadelphia.

Jayson Tatum said Jaylen Brown’s trade to Philadelphia was tough and expressed gratitude for their nine years together, including Boston’s 2024 championship. Tatum is now the Celtics’ clear centerpiece but stressed that success depends on the whole team. New teammate Paul George said his role is to support Tatum, and Boston also added Mike Conley Jr. and Mitchell Robinson. Brown said the trade initially shocked him and emphasized that players are more than statistics or financial line items. Tatum said he feels strong heading into his first full season after returning from an Achilles injury, while his health and the new roster’s adjustment will shape Boston’s prospects.
Boston’s decision to trade Brown was described as largely motivated by cost-cutting, amid concern that carrying two $300 million contracts would strain the Celtics’ salary-cap health.
In the deal, Boston received Paul George along with two first-round picks and two second-round picks.
Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla publicly recognized Brown’s contributions to the franchise and Boston community over his ten years with the team, saying they “should not be forgotten.”
Brown said he was unsure what to expect when Philadelphia visits Boston for a preseason game on Oct. 10.
Tatum said he has tried to pick up elements of George’s game, suggesting he sees the new teammate as a source of on-court learning as well as support.
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