Getty
Celtics’ star Jaylen Brown had a hilarious reaction to Jayson Tatum’s new hairstyle
The Boston Celtics handled the Chicago Bulls without much trouble Wednesday night, cruising to a 124-105 victory at TD Garden. Boston controlled the game from the opening tip and never let Chicago threaten. The win sent the Celtics into the All-Star break on a positive note.
It was Boston’s sixth victory in its last seven contests. The Celtics sit at 35-19, holding second place in the Eastern Conference. Jaylen Brown led the way with 24 points, continuing the remarkable season he’s put together while carrying the offensive load without his All-Star running mate.
A day before the Bulls game, Jayson Tatum spoke with reporters and addressed what he’s watched Brown accomplish this year.
Tatum Reacts to Brown’s Stellar Season
Jayson Tatum didn’t hold back when asked about Jaylen Brown’s performance this season. He was full of support for his All-Star teammate.
“It’s been great,” Tatum said. “Even before the season, there was no doubt in my mind that he, and P and D-White and all these guys, I knew what they were capable of.”
Tatum has been around the team for every game this season. He’s traveled to road contests, and sat on the bench at home. He’s watched Brown shoulder responsibilities that would’ve been shared between them under normal circumstances. What he’s observed hasn’t surprised him.
“Whenever somebody that loves the game that much, and works as hard as they do, gain more opportunity, I’m not surprised what they’ve been able to accomplish,” Tatum said. “It’s been really fun to see.”
The emphasis on work ethic and love of the game wasn’t casual. Tatum knows what Brown puts in behind the scenes. He understands the preparation and dedication required to perform at this level night after night. Watching it translate into results has validated everything Tatum believed about his teammate before the season started.
GettyJayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown of the Boston Celtics.
What Brown Has Accomplished This Season
The numbers tell part of the story. Brown is averaging 29.3 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game through 49 contests. He’s shooting 48.3 percent from the field while attempting more than 22 shots per night. The volume and efficiency have both increased with Tatum sidelined.
Brown earned Eastern Conference Player of the Month honors for January, got voted as an All-Star starter for the first time, and positioned himself in the MVP conversation. What he has done this season has been a shock to some, but not to Tatum.
Brown has been the primary scoring option, the closer in tight games, and the leader who keeps the team focused when things get difficult. Wednesday’s performance against Chicago reinforced all of it. Brown scored efficiently, made the right plays, and helped Boston dominate a game they were expected to win. That consistency has defined his season.
Tatum’s Timeline for Celtics Return
Tatum spoke with reporters Tuesday following his practice session with the Maine Celtics. The workout marked another step in his recovery from the torn Achilles he suffered last May. He’s now 39 weeks removed from the injury.
When asked what the Maine practice meant for his timeline, Tatum kept his answer measured.
“I’m feeling good,” Tatum said. “It was good to be a part of practice yesterday with the Maine G-League guys. Today is 39 weeks, so it’s been a long journey. And, it’s just like the progression of rehab… it doesn’t mean I’m coming back or not.”
The uncertainty around Tatum’s return persists. He’s making progress through the necessary checkpoints, but no timeline has been established. The Celtics won’t rush him back, and Tatum isn’t going to force the issue before he’s ready.
Boston enters the All-Star break before embarking on a four-game West Coast road trip starting February 19.
The Boston Celtics are now the No. 2 seed in the East with a potential Jayson Tatum return on the horizon 👀
Final Word for the Celtics
Tatum knew what Brown was capable of before the season started. He’s watched those capabilities turn into consistent MVP-level production. The work ethic and love for the game that Tatum mentioned have translated into 29.3 points per night and a legitimate case for individual honors.
Brown has carried this team to 35 wins without his co-star. He’s proven he can be the primary option on a contending team. When Tatum eventually returns, Brown’s elevated play makes the Celtics significantly more dangerous than they were before the injury.
But Brown’s season stands on its own regardless of when Tatum comes back. He’s seized the opportunity and delivered at the highest level. Tatum recognized that. The rest of the league should too.
Brown didn’t just fill the void. He exceeded expectations.
Keith Watkins Keith Watkins is a sports journalist covering the NBA for Heavy.com, with a focus on the Golden State Warriors, Boston Celtics, and Los Angeles Lakers. He previously wrote for FanSided, NBA Analysis Network, and Last Word On Sports. Keith is based in Bangkok, Thailand. More about Keith Watkins
More Heavy on Celtics
Loading more stories