Brown Grapples Celtics Trade, Aims to Help Sixers Contend

Processing the Sudden Move

Jaylen Brown admits he is still coming to terms with the blockbuster trade that sent him from Boston to Philadelphia. After a decade of development—starting as the third overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft—he now faces an unfamiliar landscape. The shock of seeing “The Jays” split up echoes the surprised reactions of Celtics fans across the city.

Celtics Lose More Than a Scorer

Brown was the driving force behind Boston’s 2024 NBA championship, taking home Finals MVP honors. In the 2025‑26 season he posted career‑best averages of 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds and 5.1 assists, finishing sixth in the MVP voting. His departure ends a stretch that included 10 consecutive playoff berths for the Celtics.

New Challenge with the 76ers

Philadelphia, the division rival that ousted Boston from last season’s playoffs, is counting on Brown’s two‑way impact to lift its contender pipeline. The Sixers view the Finals MVP’s experience and playoff pedigree as key upgrades for a roster built to win now. For Brown, the trade marks the start of a fresh chapter in a rival uniform.