Brad Stevens moved quickly to address speculation surrounding Jaylen Brown after reports surfaced that the Celtics included him in trade discussions for Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Speaking after the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft, Boston’s president of basketball operations emphasized Brown’s importance to the franchise despite the recent rumors.
“Jaylen Brown is a big part of us,” said Stevens. “I’m never going to predict the future, but everything that I think about over the past few years is building around those guys. Obviously, you never know. The one thing I want to make very clear is how valued he’s always been.”
Brown’s name had been linked to trade talks after Milwaukee ultimately chose Miami’s offer for Antetokounmpo.
Reports indicated the Celtics remained open to hearing proposals involving Brown ahead of the draft, though no transaction was completed.
Stevens also revealed that he has met privately with Brown multiple times since the season ended and has maintained communication with the star forward’s representation, signaling ongoing dialogue between both sides as questions about Brown’s long-term future continue to circulate.
Brad Stevens On Jaylen Brown: I’m Never Going To Predict The Future https://t.co/OKXx4zTCFG
— RealGM (@RealGM) June 24, 2026
