Jaylen Brown has continued to impress throughout the current NBA season, with even LeBron James suggesting Brown deserves consideration in the MVP conversation. Brown has been the standout player for the Boston Celtics, who rank among the league’s top teams, carrying much of the responsibility on the court. Marcus Smart, Brown’s former Celtics teammate, expressed no surprise at Brown’s rise, sharing his thoughts before Boston’s dominant victory over the Lakers on Sunday.
Marcus Smart Reflects on Brown’s Well-Deserved Recognition
Having played alongside Brown from 2016 to 2023, Smart praised the recognition Brown is finally receiving. He noted that while Brown’s talent has always been apparent, it often went overshadowed by other team dynamics but now Brown is fully in the spotlight.
“I’m just excited to see him finally get the recognition that he’s rightfully deserved,”
Smart said.
“Because they are so talented, he’s kind of getting overshadowed a lot of the years. It’s all on him now. He gets to showcase even more. That magnifying glass gets to be a little bit bigger for him on that end. So I’m very proud of him.”
Growth and Team Dynamics During Their Time Together
Smart witnessed Brown’s progression firsthand as they formed part of the Celtics’ core alongside Jayson Tatum. Despite some challenges early on, the trio helped Boston reach multiple deep playoff runs, culminating in the 2022 NBA Finals, where Smart provided crucial contributions.
Since leaving Boston as part of the trade involving Kristaps Porzingis in 2023, Smart has moved on to the Grizzlies and later joined the Lakers. During Sunday’s game, Smart frequently matched up defensively against Brown, emphasizing Brown’s consistency in performance.
Smart Emphasizes Brown’s Consistent Talent and Newfound Spotlight
Reflecting on Brown’s skill set, Smart highlighted how the guard’s abilities have always been exceptional but often unnoticed due to team circumstances. Now, with fewer distractions, Brown’s true caliber is on full display.
“This is what he’s always been able to do,”
Smart remarked.
“Because of how talented he is, he’s always been overshadowed, JB has. Now with no shadow around him, you get to see Jaylen for Jaylen. Jaylen’s doing exactly what he’s been doing when I was there, what he’s been asked to do.”
Jaylen Brown’s Rising Role and Its Impact on the Celtics
Brown’s emergence as a leading figure for the Celtics not only underscores his individual growth but also influences the team’s performance as a whole. As Brown continues to gain recognition and shoulder greater responsibilities, Boston’s prospects for continued success in the playoffs appear strengthened. Observers and teammates alike are eager to see how Brown’s career progresses and how he will further shape the Celtics’ future.
