yahoo
Jaylen Brown has no plans to reach out to his former Boston Celtics co-star Jayson Tatum, even as their first meeting since Brown's trade approaches. The Philadelphia 76ers guard made it clear that he sees no reason to reconnect with Tatum before the 76ers face the Celtics this week.
Brown and Tatum shared the court for nine seasons, a partnership that produced five Eastern Conference Finals appearances, two NBA Finals trips, and a championship in 2024. The All-NBA duo was widely regarded as one of the league's top pairings, but Brown's exit has brought to light the fragile nature of their relationship.
Speaking to reporters after Philadelphia's win over the Chicago Bulls, Brown was asked about facing Boston for the first time and how he planned to reunite with Tatum. His response was blunt: he hasn't spoken to Tatum since his departure and has no interest in doing so.
When asked if the two had talked since NBA Media Day, Brown replied, 'Nope,' adding, 'There's nothing to talk about. He's on his side, and I'm on my side playing basketball. Both of us are trying to win, so there's nothing to talk about. Check the ball up.'
Brown also expressed affection for the city of Boston, saying, 'I love Boston. Boston is a great city. A lot of great people I've developed relationships with. I'm just focused on what is in front of me right now. That's the most important thing.'
Key Analysis
Brown has never hidden his issues with Tatum and the Celtics, though he hasn't detailed what caused the rift. At one point, the two appeared to be close friends, with their on-court chemistry reflecting that bond. Now, with unresolved tension between them, both players will be eager to outperform each other when the 76ers and Celtics clash this week.
Originally reported by yahoo.