Jaylen Brown denies trade demand rumors, returns to Philadelphia win
The 76er forward rejected claims he forced a move from Boston, adding 20 points in a 114-109 victory over Indiana.
By Andrew Yang ·
Jaylen Brown addressed the speculation surrounding his offseason departure from the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night. The Philadelphia 76ers forward stated he never requested a trade from his former team, pushing back against narratives that have persisted into the current season.
Brown spoke after the 76ers defeated the Indiana Pacers, 114-109. He described the rumors as false allegations that he did not want attached to his new role in Philadelphia. He said, “I have no interest in letting any false allegations follow me into my next chapter here in Philadelphia. I never demanded a trade. Never made a list of ultimatums.”
The controversy traces back to comments made by former Celtics player and broadcaster Brian Scalabrine. Scalabrine claimed this week that Brown had demanded to be traded during the summer. He later walked back that report. Brown said he is staying focused on the opportunity in Philadelphia and looking forward to the season.
Brown joined the Sixers in a deal involving Paul George. The 2024 NBA Finals MVP and five-time All-Star was the league’s fourth-leading scorer last year. His move has already created friction with former teammate Jayson Tatum.
Tatum recently told viewers on his YouTube channel that he was as caught off guard by the trade as the rest of the world. Brown responded on Instagram with a baseball cap emoji, a slang term indicating a statement is not true. Tatum said he holds no animosity or ill will toward Brown. Brown countered last week by saying there is no beef, though there might be some lamb chops and gravy. He added that Tatum should stay ready at all times.
Brown said he has no plans to speak with Tatum before the Celtics visit Philadelphia on Nov. 10. In Wednesday’s game, Brown recorded 20 points and 10 rebounds to lead the 76ers to the win.
