Under the Radar: Jaylen Brown

Before the NBA season suspended, we saw some of the best players in the game perform at the highest level. Fans saw a 35-year-old LeBron James dominate the league like he was 25, Giannis Antetokounmpo at the peak of his young career so far and James Harden lighting up the league with his elite and flashy scoring.

Along with these proven stars, there have been a number of players that had breakout years such as Jayson Tatum, Donovan Mitchell and Luka Doncic.

One player who seemed to fly under the radar was Jaylen Brown.

Coming into this season, the hype in Boston was real. After losing two all-stars, the Celtics acquired Kemba Walker, another all-star point guard, and Enes Kanter, a solid big man. Fans around the globe were anxious to see if this team had what it took to remain a top team in the east, and they did.

Before the hiatus, Boston was the third seed in the Eastern Conference. Most of this success was accredited to Tatum’s emergence as an elite scorer and Walker’s leadership and playmaking skills.

Although those things are true, it’s safe to say that if Brown was not having a season like he was, this team would be significantly worse off.

This season, Brown has boasted averages of 20 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists. Not only is he averaging seven more points than any of his previous seasons, but it is also clear that his defense has improved right along with his scoring. Multiple times this season, Brown has been given the task to guard the opposing team’s best player, and he’s excelled at limiting them. Along with this, Brown has been amazing at being a “questionable” player to opposing defenses. He can shoot, but he is also one of the best in the league at getting to the basket.

This ability has not only helped him score but helps his team win games on multiple occasions. At the young age of 23, it’s safe to say this guy is going to be a threat on both sides of the ball for years to come.