Jaylen Brown is 28 years old and currently playing under a five-year, \$304 million supermax extension—the richest contract in NBA history. Just over a year after signing that deal, Brown helped lead the Boston Celtics to their 18th championship and earned NBA Finals MVP honors for his clutch performances on both ends of the court. Despite his postseason heroics and a growing résumé, Brown’s future in Boston is no longer untouchable.
The Celtics have made surprising and aggressive moves this offseason, signaling that they are thinking long-term and aren’t afraid to retool—even after winning it all. With the luxury tax looming large and the second apron creating severe financial constraints, Boston’s front office may be forced to make difficult decisions. Jayson Tatum’s upcoming extension, along with major deals for Kristaps Porziņģis and Jrue Holiday, have put the team in a financial bind that can only be solved by either shedding salary or letting go of a star.
Trading Brown, despite his MVP-caliber performance, may not be as unthinkable as it once was. His contract, though massive, is still movable due to the rising salary cap and the high demand for two-way wings in today’s NBA. Several teams would jump at the chance to acquire a player of his caliber—especially one who just proved he can perform on the biggest stage.
Ultimately, while Brown remains a cornerstone of the Celtics’ current identity, Boston’s recent moves suggest that no one is fully safe. If the front office believes parting ways with Brown is the only path to sustain long-term success and financial flexibility, they may shock the league once again—this time by moving on from their Finals MVP.
