The Boston Celtics are gearing up to start a playoff run against the Orlando Magic tonight.
And NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith explained what he thinks is most important to the defending champions to run another title.
“The main thing I want to see is Jalen Brown’s health because if they’re going to be repeated as champions, they think they need Jalen Brown,” Smith said.
While acknowledging Boston’s collective strength, Smith asserted that Brown’s availability and performance levels could ultimately be a different maker for teams looking to secure consecutive titles.
Smith’s concerns are understandable given that Brown missed the final game of the Celtics’ three regular seasons, but he claims he was cleared in the first game against magic.
Smith highlighted the Celtics’ impressive roster building and coaching, making it a championship favorite.
“We understand that they’re a complete team, exceptional and well-teached. They have a guy who can deliver the goods,” he said.
Analysts specifically praised the sixth Payton Pritchard, who emerged as a key contributor from the bench.
“Peyton Pritchard has been special to them this year, but he deserves a lot of recognition and a lot of credit,” admitted Smith before returning to his main point.
Puchard, who averaged 14.3 points and 3.5 assists per game during the regular season, will be participating in a star-studded starting lineup of Jason Tatum, Brown, Christaps Porzingis, Derrick White and Julou Holiday, where Celtics players average double-digit points.
Despite the incredible depth of the team, Smith’s focus remained on Brown. Brown culminated in the MVP honors, where his outstanding performance in the playoffs last year won the final.
This championship pedigree causes both expectations and pressure for Brown, resulting in similar results.
“But Jalen Brown, the MVP of the final, needs his brother to be ready, but he won’t make any mistakes about it.”
As the Celtics prepare to defend their title from Orlando, everyone is making eye contact about Brown’s health and how he performs.
Smith believes it is an important decision whether Boston won the second year Larry O’Brien Trophy.