Before the NBA matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics at Crypto.com Arena, JJ Redick shared insights on the Celtics’ surprising campaign. Despite many expecting Boston to struggle this season, Redick noted that the team’s strong performance, including Jaylen Brown’s MVP season, aligns with what insiders anticipated.
Redick, who is coaching the Lakers’ bench, expressed his belief that the Celtics’ system suits their personnel well and praised their position near the top of the Eastern Conference. He stated,
“I think in terms of how Joe wants to play, they have enough of the right personnel.”
This assessment reflects a broader respect for Boston’s ability to perform amid roster changes and Jayson Tatum’s recovery from an Achilles injury.
Jaylen Brown’s Comprehensive Skill Set Garners High Praise
Redick emphasized Brown’s growth and versatility, noting how the player’s all-around game has been pivotal for Boston. Brown’s contributions go beyond scoring, as he elevates those around him. Redick remarked,
“There’s just no holes in his game,”
highlighting Brown’s capacity to lead effectively in Tatum’s absence and contribute on many fronts.
This comprehensive skill set has positioned Brown firmly in the MVP discussion, with his performance matching the high standards expected from a player of his caliber. Redick further added,
“I don’t think anybody should be surprised at how good of a season Jaylen Brown and Payton Pritchard are having. Jaylen, in particular, [a] conference finals MVP, [Finals] MVP, and getting kind of to carry it, you know, as the number one guy every night.”
Dispelling Old Narratives About Brown’s Game
Redick also addressed the outdated narrative questioning Brown’s ability to finish plays with his left hand, which had been a recurring theme in previous seasons. He shared his recent review of game footage, revealing that Brown’s drives to the left are strong and effective.
“He’s just improved so much year to year, it’s actually — it’s remarkable,”
Redick said.
“I was watching personnel tape yesterday and went on our internal site, and [I] was looking at his drive numbers going left versus right. Everybody says he can’t go left, and there’s just no holes in his game.”
This improvement is reflected in Brown’s league-wide rankings—he is among the top players in mid-range shot conversions and leads in attempts for drives per game. His ability to balance shooting and driving has created quality opportunities for both himself and the Celtics, contributing to their NBA’s second-highest offensive rating.
Boston’s Offensive Strengths and Coaching Excellence
Redick pointed out that Brown’s presence, combined with the shooting prowess of other Celtics and Payton Pritchard’s skill in isolation, makes Boston’s offense particularly difficult to defend.
“I think, starting with a player like that and then having all of the shooting and then Pritchard’s ability to break down defenses in isolation, with shooting all around that,”
he explained. Redick gave credit to Celtics’ head coach Joe for his leadership, stating,
“And then, I think Joe is, there’s a handful of coaches that I think are doing a tier-one job this year, and Joe’s in that group of coaches. He’s really done a phenomenal job.”
This recognition of both playing and coaching excellence underscores why the Celtics have defied expectations, maintaining strong standing in the Eastern Conference and contending as serious title contenders despite earlier doubts.
The Broader Impact on NBA Narratives and Upcoming Challenges
JJ Redick’s comments challenge previous skepticism surrounding Jaylen Brown’s abilities and confirm the Celtics’ credibility as a top team this season. Brown’s all-around development and leadership have not only enhanced his MVP candidacy but have also helped Boston stay competitive during a year marked by adversity and adjustments.
As the NBA season continues, attention will remain on how Brown sustains this high level of play and how the Celtics navigate their path to the playoffs, especially with the ongoing contributions from key players and coaching staff. Redick’s praise suggests that Boston’s current trajectory is built on solid fundamentals that could impact postseason dynamics significantly.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick on Jaylen Brown while discussing why he isn’t surprised about the Celtics defying external expectations this season:
“There’s just no holes in his game.” pic.twitter.com/2HC1mOx7bk
— Bobby Krivitsky (@BobbyKrivitsky) February 22, 2026
