Paul George said Tuesday he understands the shock and anger from Boston Celtics fans after the team traded Jaylen Brown. The Celtics sent the 2024 NBA Finals MVP to the Philadelphia 76ers in July for George, two first-round picks, and two second-round picks. The move came after Boston's recent playoff exit, including a 100-109 loss to the 76ers on May 2, 2026.
George acknowledged the emotional weight of the deal for Celtics supporters. "Listen, I understand the circumstances," George said. "I understand how huge J.B. was, not only for the organization but here in the city. So I didn't take it personal." He emphasized his focus is on a fresh start after two injury-plagued seasons in Philadelphia. George played just 78 games over those two years, limited by left knee pain and a suspension for violating the NBA's Anti-Drug agreement.
He returned late last March and averaged 16.4 points on 59.7% true shooting in the postseason. "I feel great again," George stated. His job, he says, isn't to replace Brown but to help the Celtics win. "I think I can come in and kind of still keep us in that contention and give us a chance to win."
The trade represents a major shakeup by President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens. Brown, 29, was coming off a career year, averaging 28.7 points and finishing sixth in MVP voting. He carried the team while Jayson Tatum missed 62 games with a torn Achilles. Brown led Boston to a 56-26 record.
But the Celtics have won only one playoff series in the last two years. That includes blowing a 3-1 lead to Philadelphia in the first round just before the trade. Stevens decided a change was needed. "I really like this group," Stevens said Tuesday. "I really think this group will be good."
George and Tatum will form the new core. Tatum is fully healthy after playing only 18 games last regular season. "We have a superstar, and that's J.T.," George said. "I'm here to help J.T., and he's the guy. I have played alongside another superstar wing, and we coexisted beautifully."
The Celtics also signed center Mitchell Robinson to a three-year, $47.4 million deal. Robinson has been one of the league's top rebounders for eight years. Veteran point guard Mike Conley Jr. was introduced Tuesday as well. These additions aim to return Boston to title contention after their 2024 championship.
Boston's form has been inconsistent. Their recent run shows two wins and three losses (LLLWW), including three straight defeats. Those losses were all to Philadelphia in a playoff series: 100-109 on May 2, 106-93 on May 1, and 97-113 on April 28. They had earlier wins of 128-96 on April 26 and 108-100 on April 24.
The Celtics have made the playoffs for 12 consecutive years. But recent early exits prompted this roster overhaul. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming schedule on our schedule page. George's health and fit with Tatum will be the story to watch as the new season approaches.
