Celtics president cites competitive concerns and depth as reasons for Jaylen Brown trade

Boston Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens said the decision to trade forward Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers was made to keep the team competitive and increase flexibility with draft assets. The deal, announced on Monday, sends Brown to Philadelphia in exchange for forward Paul George, two first-round picks (2028, 2031) and two second-round picks (2028, 2030).

Stevens said the franchise’s outlook had become “more challenging” because a large portion of its salary cap and on-court usage was tied to Brown and Jayson Tatum. He emphasized the need to build depth that can “replace the irreplaceable individual” and diversify the team’s attack.

"We like Paul," Stevens added, noting that George can contribute as a primary option for stretches while also playing a complementary role on both ends of the floor. He described the draft assets as potential premium pieces that could provide “big swings.”

Owner Bill Chisholm rejected the notion that the move was financially motivated, stating, "This was all about basically trying to win. … We'll spend whatever it takes to do that." He said the front office concluded the trade was the best path to win now and in future seasons.

Stevens acknowledged the emotional impact on fans and admitted he had lost sleep over the decision. He said the organization is not defensive about the trade and will assess its effect on the upcoming season when it unfolds.

In addition to the Brown trade, Boston signed center Mitchell Robinson to a three-year, $47 million contract, added veteran guard Mike Conley on a one-year deal, and re-signed center Neemias Queta to a four-year, $56 million extension, moves aimed at bolstering depth.