Jaylen Brown is set to take on a significant leadership role for the Boston Celtics this upcoming season following Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury. Brown will not only be the team’s leader but also its primary scoring option, a challenge he has experienced only in limited capacity before. This shift places Brown at the center of the Celtics’ hopes in a season marked by uncertainty and high expectations.

Concerns Raised About Brown’s Performance and Durability

Grant Hughes of Bleacher Report recently expressed cautious views about Brown’s potential without Tatum in the lineup, noting several concerns regarding his efficiency and consistency. Last season, Brown’s scoring average dipped to a five-year low of 22.2 points per game, raising questions about whether he can elevate that figure while carrying the Celtics’ offensive load.

Specifically, Hughes highlighted Brown’s shaky three-point shooting and handle, alongside his history of durability problems. Brown has not played more than 70 games in any season since 2018-19 when he was still a sixth man, suggesting that heavy minutes could further expose these vulnerabilities. These issues become more critical as opposing defenses will increasingly focus on Brown as Boston’s primary scoring threat.

Increased Defensive Pressure Could Impact Brown’s Efficiency

With Brown now facing the rival team’s top defenders regularly, he will be subjected to intense defensive pressure, especially when attacking off the bounce—his main strength. This scenario will likely force him to take more perimeter shots, a known challenge for his shooting consistency. While Brown’s raw statistics might improve due to higher usage, his overall efficiency, particularly shooting percentages and turnovers, may decline as a result.

Additionally, the physical toll of heavier minutes combined with previous knee issues could jeopardize Brown’s availability throughout the season. For the Celtics, his ability to remain healthy and productive will be essential given the competitiveness and unpredictability of the Eastern Conference this year.

Impact on Celtics’ Season Amid Widespread Uncertainty

Brown stepping up as the team’s alpha will have a profound effect on Boston‘s outlook. His performance will shape how well the Celtics navigate a season without one of their key stars. Ensuring that Brown can handle the increased responsibility both physically and mentally appears to be crucial for Boston to maintain its competitiveness.

The Celtics face a crucial period where Brown’s leadership challenge might define their trajectory in a conference that remains open but demanding. His ability to overcome doubts and carry Boston’s offensive burden will be closely watched as the season progresses.

The BIG3 All-Star game is this weekend in Orlando!Jaylen Brown was the 1st active NBA player to play in @thebig3 game(Via @Hoopsfix) pic.twitter.com/5KGevU8ewT — Ballislife.com (@Ballislife)

Brown’s scoring average dipped to a five-year-low of 22.2 points per game last season. Maybe he’ll beat that number as Boston’s alpha stand-in for Tatum, but Brown is bound to have major efficiency struggles.

A shaky handle, inconsistent three-point shooting and durability issues that make big minutes dangerous (Brown hasn’t played more than 70 games since he was a sixth man in 2018-19) will all be more clearly exposed with less talent surrounding him. Couple that with opposing defenses treating him like a first option, and Brown might miss his first All-Star game since 2022.