BOSTON — After Boston’s 22-point win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday, LeBron James said Celtics swingman Jaylen Brown deserves far more attention in the league’s MVP conversation.
Brown’s numbers and response
Brown delivered 32 points, eight rebounds, seven assists and three steals to push Boston to 37-19, the NBA’s fourth-best record. The 27-year-old is averaging a career-high 29.2 points along with 7.0 rebounds and 4.9 assists through 51 games, carrying the offense while Jayson Tatum rehabs a torn Achilles.
“This whole MVP thing—I don’t understand why his name isn’t getting mentioned,” James told reporters. “Nobody gave them a shot to start the season, and he’s averaging right around 30.”
Brown thanked James and outlined his own credentials. “I feel like I’m the best two-way player in the world,” he said. “Night to night I’m available, I lead, and I try to win every single night.”
Pritchard thriving off the bench
Guard Payton Pritchard has shifted to a reserve role since the trade deadline but remains productive. He scored 30 points in 38 minutes against Los Angeles and said the storied rivalry fueled his performance. “Felt like I’m back in my college days at Oregon playing Washington or Arizona,” he said. “Rivalry will bring that out of you.”
Doncic on rookie Hugo Gonzalez
Luka Doncic, who shares a Real Madrid background with Boston rookie Hugo Gonzalez, said the first-year forward’s energy stands out. “We all know he’s a very high-effort player,” Doncic noted. “It’s only his first year—he’ll have time to learn, but I think he’s going to be a very important piece for every team he plays for.”
Tatum’s rehab update
Lakers guard Marcus Smart, a longtime teammate of Tatum in Boston, said he has kept in touch throughout the star forward’s recovery. “He’s doing real well, as you guys know,” Smart said. “I’m glad he’s in good spirits and his process is going very well.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
