Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown confirmed he can deal with the warmth of the NBA playoffs, however his resolve was examined by a unique sort of warmth this offseason.
The three-time All-Star appeared on “Sizzling Ones,” a chat present the place notable visitors reply questions whereas devouring more and more spicy wings. Brown wasn’t too bothered by the spice, as he rose to the problem and answered every part host Sean Evans requested.
Earlier than the interview ended, Brown was subjected to rapid-fire questions concerning the upcoming 2024-25 NBA season. His solutions ought to delight Celtics followers in addition to those that help the Memphis Grizzlies.
Which staff will make the largest leap in response to Jaylen Brown?
When Evans requested which staff that missed the playoffs through the 2023-24 marketing campaign would enhance essentially the most within the new season, Brown had a fast reply, by way of Sizzling Ones.
“Memphis,” he replied.
The Grizzlies have been ravaged by accidents final season and are aiming to bounce again in a giant approach. Brown’s good friend and former teammate, guard Marcus Sensible, solely performed in 20 video games his first 12 months at Tennessee. Moreover, two-time All-Star Ja Morant returned from a 25-game suspension and suffered a season-ending damage lower than a month later.
Memphis’ well being points did not cease there, however Sensible and Morant are anticipated to be within the beginning lineup for his or her season opener. Because of their proficient guards and stingy protection led by 2023 Defensive Participant of the 12 months Jaren Jackson Jr., the Grizzlies might enter the playoff race. In any other case, it is going to be laborious to sink any decrease than the dismal 2023-24 season during which they missed the playoffs and completed thirteenth within the Western Convention.
Who does Jaylen Brown wish to see within the Dunk Contest?
Lately, NBA All-Stars have prevented the Dunk Contest and caught to much less demanding competitions. Nonetheless, Brown broke the mildew and took part in February’s thrilling showdown.
The reigning Finals MVP did not win, however he proved that not all stars are above taking part within the Dunk Contest.
On Sizzling Ones, Brown stated he would like to see New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson rock the rim on the subsequent All-Star break. The previous No. 1 total decide used to throw down vicious dunks at Duke College, and Brown (and a plethora of NBA followers) would like to witness his jams on an even bigger stage.
Given Williamson’s damage historical past and his absence for the Pelicans’ total first-round recreation in opposition to the Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder, a Dunk Contest might be out of the query. If he can keep wholesome, he ought to at the least qualify for the 2025 NBA All-Star Recreation in San Francisco.
Does Jaylen Brown suppose the Celtics can win back-to-back titles?
The ultimate prediction Brown made was immediately associated to the Inexperienced staff.
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“The Boston Celtics will win back-to-back NBA Finals if,” Evans requested, hoping Brown would full the sentence.
“[If] we keep wholesome,” Brown added.
Final season, the Celtics’ dominance was evident. They managed the Japanese Convention and had a 64-18 report, the very best in all the league. Within the playoffs, it was just about the identical. Boston went 16-3, gained its 18th championship in franchise historical past and by no means let a playoff collection go 5 video games.
The 2023-24 Celtics weren’t even totally wholesome. Heart Kristaps Porzingis was out for the whole thing of the Japanese Convention semifinals and finals with a calf pressure. And though he dazzled in Recreation 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals in opposition to one among his former groups, the Dallas Mavericks, he suffered a freak damage in Recreation 2 that required low season surgical procedure.
His timeline is unclear, however the 2018 All-Star is not going to see the court docket within the Celtics’ season opener in opposition to the New York Knicks on Oct. 22.
With out Porzingis, the C’s nonetheless have a robust staff that may assist them overcome his absence. Sustaining a wholesome beginning 5 later within the season is a precedence for the Celtics as they’re tough to beat at full energy.
