Jaylen Brown, despite overcoming a scoreless first half to shine in the second, continues to face skepticism from NBA executives when it comes to the value of his $304 million supermax contract. Signed with the Boston Celtics, this record extension has raised doubts among various front offices about whether Brown’s salary justifies his trade worth.

According to NBA insider Jake Fischer on The Garden Report with Bobby Manning, there was never an actual intention to trade Brown or Derrick White within the Celtics organization. Fischer shared,

“I think all along there was never really a plan to move Jaylen [Brown] or Derrick [White]. So I don’t think anything got close, and I don’t think they were really willing to move those guys either.”

Yet, he also pointed out the hesitation teams feel regarding Brown’s contract size:

“For Jaylen, as great as he is–I think a lot of teams look at his salary number and go: ‘Why would you be paying what Boston values him at, for that contract?’”

The concern over Brown’s contract isn’t limited to a few teams; it is a widespread hesitation. Fischer noted plainly that, from the perspective of other franchises, Brown’s contract

“isn’t universally viewed as an incredible addition if you were to trade for him.”

This reflects a discrepancy between Boston’s valuation of Brown and the broader market’s willingness to absorb such a large financial commitment.

Implications of Brown’s Contract on Boston Celtics’ Roster Moves

Fischer also highlighted how the Celtics front office is carefully monitoring salary cap details, particularly the second apron, which affects how aggressively they can maneuver in trades. He explained,

“They could get below the second apron at the trade deadline,”

and added,

“I’d expect Boston to be very involved in trade talk through February.”

The substantial size and escalating nature of Brown’s contract create constraints for Boston’s flexibility, especially as the season progresses. Conversely, players like Derrick White are seen as more valuable trade assets due to their versatility and relatively modest salaries. Fischer emphasized White’s adaptability, stating,

“He can play big. He can play small. He can play on ball. He can play off-ball. He can shoot it. He can defend. Like he’s such a close-to-flawless super role player.”

Despite interest from teams like Golden State and Toronto, the Celtics held firm on their asking price for White, which Fischer described as requiring offers comparable to high-level players such as Desmond Bane or Mikal Bridges:

“You would have had to make a Desmond Bane, Mikal Bridges–type of offer for Derrick White.”

In contrast, no serious trade discussions involving Brown materialized, underscoring the league-wide reluctance to match Boston’s valuation for a player with such a hefty contract. This dynamic continues to challenge perceptions of Brown’s trade value, as teams balance his high ceiling with the financial burden of his deal.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Is Jaylen Brown vegan?

A. At 24, I chose to become vegan, and it changed many things in my life, Brown shared. That same year, I made my first All-Star appearance, and I believe the two were connected. I noticed I was acting differently.

Q. Is Jaylen Brown a vegan?

A. When Brown was 24, he chose to become vegan. He mentioned during “KT THE ARCH DEGREE” that this decision changed many things for him. That same year, he became an All-Star for the first time, suggesting a connection. He noticed he was living differently and thinking more clearly.