Dallas Mavericks coach Jason Kidd stirred up some media attention by calling Jaylen Brown the best player on the Boston Celtics ahead of Game 2 of the 2024 NBA Finals. While both Brown and Jayson Tatum dismissed the comments, stating that it’s a team game and they are used to such comparisons, Celtics guard Jrue Holiday had a different reaction.
“This is the first I’m hearing it, but I mean, I don’t think he’s lying. I think JB has been, he’s been aggressive in every single way. He’s been getting to the paint, getting to the free throw line, also making plays for other people, and then he’s guarding Luka, he’s guarding the best player.”
“I’ve been on teams where, just any team, where does your best player have such a heavy load on the offensive end, and then a heavy, just as equal heavy load on the defensive end. That’s hard to do. That’s hard to do. That’s hard to do especially against somebody like Luka.”
Jason Kidd made headlines today by saying Jaylen Brown is Boston's best player. Hear Jrue Holiday react to those comments with @TermineRadio and @GregAnthony50 #NBAFinals
Hear the full interview and more coverage of the NBA Finals right here on NBA Radio https://t.co/mhGzRXllab pic.twitter.com/wYjDDsQzzY
— SiriusXM NBA Radio (@SiriusXMNBA) June 8, 2024
Holiday, who was traded to the Celtics this past offseason, surprisingly agreed with Kidd’s assessment. In an interview, he expressed his support for the notion that Brown has been the standout player for the Celtics. Holiday highlighted Brown’s all-around game and his significant contributions on both ends of the floor.
Holiday’s perspective is shaped by his recent experiences with the Celtics and his firsthand observations of Brown’s performance. While Tatum made the All-NBA First Team and finished sixth in MVP voting, Brown has been exceptional, winning the Eastern Conference Finals MVP against the Indiana Pacers and playing a crucial role in the Celtics’ success.
In Game 1 of the NBA Finals, Brown scored 22 points on 7/12 shooting, along with 6 rebounds, 3 steals, and 3 blocks, showcasing his versatility and impact on the game. Tatum, on the other hand, struggled with 16 points on 6/16 shooting, despite contributing 11 rebounds and 5 assists.
Holiday’s endorsement of Brown as the Celtics’ best player underscores the importance of recognizing contributions beyond just scoring. Brown’s defensive responsibilities, particularly his task of guarding Luka Doncic, and his ability to perform under pressure, make a compelling case for Kidd’s comments.
While this may stir some debate within the Celtics fanbase and potentially motivate Tatum to elevate his game, it ultimately highlights the depth and talent within the Boston Celtics’ roster. Whether Kidd’s remarks were intended to create a rift or simply a strategic mind game, the impact on the Celtics’ dynamics will unfold as the Finals progress.
It’s Good For The Boston Celtics If Jaylen Brown Rises To The Same Level Of Talent As Jayson Tatum
The debate over who is better between Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown misses a critical point: the Boston Celtics benefit greatly if both players rise to the same elite level. Historically, Tatum has been seen as the more dominant player, but recent performances suggest that Brown is closing the gap, elevating his game to match Tatum’s high standards.
This season, Tatum averaged 26.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.9 assists while shooting 47.1% from the field and 37.6% from three-point range. In comparison, Brown put up impressive numbers with 23.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists, shooting 49.9% from the field and 35.5% from beyond the arc. These statistics highlight that Brown is not just catching up but performing at an elite level comparable to Tatum.
Tatum has often been touted as a top-five player in the league when at his best. If Brown continues to elevate his game, the Celtics could have two top-five talents on their roster. This dual-threat dynamic is a significant advantage in the NBA, where having multiple superstars can transform a team from a contender to a dynasty.
Brown, at 27, and Tatum, at 26, are both entering the prime of their careers. Brown recently signed a five-year extension, and Tatum is expected to receive a similar contract soon. This ensures that the Celtics have secured their core for the foreseeable future, providing stability and the potential for long-term success.
Having two players of Tatum and Brown’s caliber can create a competitive edge that few teams can match. It allows the Celtics to have multiple scoring options, defensive versatility, and the ability to withstand injuries or off nights from either player. This balance makes the team more resilient and adaptable, essential qualities for a championship run.
Furthermore, the synergy between Tatum and Brown can foster a positive team culture and attract other high-caliber players to Boston. Their development into top-tier talents can also inspire their teammates, elevating the overall performance of the team.
It’s not about comparing who is better between Tatum and Brown but rather celebrating the rise of both to elite status. This development is undeniably good for the Boston Celtics, setting the stage for potential dynastic success and ensuring the team remains a formidable force in the NBA for years to come.
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