Jaylen Brown communicated to the Boston Celtics that he wished to be treated like a franchise player before they eventually dealt him to the Philadelphia 76ers in a blockbuster trade, sources told The Athletic's Jay King.
Brown's message came after the Celtics' elimination in the first round of the playoffs at the hands of the Sixers, King adds.
The 30-year-old, who had three years remaining on his five-year, $285-million contract when the trade occurred, has denied reports that he requested a move out of Boston.
On June 23, as trade rumors swirled and a report of a rift between the two parties surfaced, Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens was adamant that the organization held the five-time All-Star in high regard.
"The one thing I want to make very clear is how valued (Brown has) always been," Stevens said at the time. "He's been amazing. He's been an amazing teammate and a great person to be around. Whether that run ends 10 years from now when he retires or before, there's a lot to celebrate."
Boston shipped Brown to Philadelphia eight days later for Paul George, two first-round picks, and two second-round picks.
The 2024 Finals MVP enjoyed a stellar 2025-26 season, earning a second-team All-NBA selection courtesy of a career-high 28.7 points per game in teammate Jayson Tatum's injury absence.
Brown and Tatum will face each other for the first time Tuesday in Philadelphia. Both players have tried to pour cold water on reports of friction between them.
"There's no beef," Brown said in October. "There might be a little lamb chops and some gravy. He should stay ready at all times."
