Jayson Tatum broke his silence on the Boston Celtics’ shock trade of Jaylen Brown on Tuesday, 2 Jul 2026, calling the move “weird” and admitting he’s still processing the loss of a teammate he’s spent nine seasons with.
What happened?
The Celtics sent Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for Paul George and a package of future draft picks. The deal was announced on 28 Jun 2026 and stunned fans and players alike. Tatum, who has shared the court with Brown since their rookie year, sat down with SB Nation’s Noa Dalzell while promoting his new children’s book to discuss the trade.
How does Tatum describe the trade?
Tatum said the trade feels “weird” because Brown has been a constant presence for a decade. “You play on a team with a guy for nine years. I was fortunate enough to go to the Finals with him twice, and win a championship, and push each other to be the players that we are today,” he told Dalzell.
He added that the business side of the NBA can be harsh. “The NBA is an incredible business; it’s an incredible job, but there are some downsides to the business and moments like this, where you just kind of feel like you’re going to be on the team with somebody, because that’s all you know. And then it’s just like, one day you find out that they’re no longer on your team anymore.”
Why does it matter for Tatum and the Celtics?
Brown’s departure removes a key scorer and defender from Boston’s lineup, forcing Tatum to shoulder more offensive load. The two had combined for over 50 points per game during the 2024‑25 championship run. Tatum’s comments highlight the emotional weight of losing a teammate who helped shape his career.
He also praised Brown’s contributions to the city, noting the “great years” and community work that won over fans. “It’s tough. But it just makes you appreciate the moments and time that we had. Obviously, it came to an abrupt ending, but it doesn’t mean it wasn’t super successful,” Tatum said.
What’s next for Tatum?
With Paul George now joining the roster, Tatum faces a new on‑court partnership. The veteran’s experience could help Boston stay competitive, but Tatum will need to adjust his rhythm and leadership style. He hinted that the trade might spark a fresh drive: “It makes you appreciate the moments and pushes you to keep grinding.”
The Celtics are set to begin preseason on 10 Oct 2026, giving Tatum and George a few weeks to build chemistry. Fans will watch closely to see how Tatum’s scoring averages and defensive assignments evolve under the new configuration.
How is Brown’s family reacting?
Brown’s mother, Mechalle Brown, expressed sadness but affirmed the family’s ongoing commitment to Boston’s community projects. She said they will maintain ties with local institutions like MIT, even as Jaylen prepares to wear a 76ers jersey.
The trade underscores the NBA’s ever‑shifting landscape, and Tatum’s candid interview offers a rare glimpse into the personal side of roster moves that often get reduced to numbers and headlines.