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Jaylen Brown Addresses Jayson Tatum Drama After Sixers Win

Jaylen Brown downplayed issues with Jayson Tatum after scoring 27 points in a Philadelphia victory, though tension remains between the former Celtics teammates.

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Tension between former Boston teammates

Jaylen Brown had his best game of the season on Saturday night, scoring 27 points to help the Philadelphia 76ers beat the Milwaukee Bucks 127-116 and move to 3-0. After the game, Brown spoke about his relationship with former Boston Celtics teammate Jayson Tatum.

Brown insisted there was no beef between them, but added that there might be a little lamb chops and some gravy. He stated that Tatum should stay ready at all times. The comments came after Tatum said on YouTube that he was caught off guard by the offseason trade that sent Brown to Philadelphia. Brown responded online with a blue hat emoji, which means cap or lying. Tatum later said on Friday night that there is no beef and that he would welcome a conversation, but Brown appeared disinterested in hashing things out right now.

A blockbuster trade changes the dynamic

Brown and Tatum spent nine seasons together in Boston after both being drafted third overall. They made five Eastern Conference finals, reached two NBA Finals, and won the championship in 2024 over the Dallas Mavericks. Last season, with Tatum limited to 16 games due to an Achilles rupture, Brown averaged 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.1 assists. He finished sixth in MVP voting and made second team All NBA while guiding Boston to 56 wins.

Despite that success, Boston traded Brown to the 76ers for Paul George, two first round picks, and two second round picks. Brown, who turned 30 on Saturday, said in a social media statement after the trade that he was excited and disappointed at the same time. The two stars worked out on opposite ends of the floor before a preseason game two weeks ago and did not acknowledge each other.

Looking ahead to their first matchup

Both players say they are focused on their current teams. Brown pointed out that Tatum has a great public relations team and said each player has to do what is required for his own squad.

Fans will not have to wait long to see them compete on the court. The 76ers and Celtics face each other for the first time this season on Nov. 10 in Philadelphia.

What it means for the next game

Detroit Pistons at Philadelphia 76ers (NBA, Sun, 25 Oct): Philadelphia 76ers win 51%, Detroit Pistons win 49%; projected score Philadelphia 76ers 114, Detroit Pistons 113. Our safest pick: Pistons +10.5.

Chicago Bulls at Boston Celtics (NBA, Mon, 26 Oct): Boston Celtics win 84%, Chicago Bulls win 16%; projected score Boston Celtics 122, Chicago Bulls 110. Our safest pick: Celtics to win.