How Jaylen Brown Is Living Up To His Massive Contract

Defensive Impact

Quietly this has been one of Brown’s best defensive seasons. Despite an improved surrounding roster, Brown has never been so impactful defensively. Brown is an elite perimeter defender who regularly guards some of the league’s top players. Including guarding Anthony Edwards and Luka Doncic this season. Brown’s impressive physical traits allow them to guard multiple positions and make him a nightmare matchup for opposing guards. Opponents are shooting just 40% on shots from 5 to 9 feet away with Brown as the primary defender. Furthermore Brown’s estimated defensive plus/minus ranks him in the 88th percentile. This impact has led to a campaign for Brown to be named to an All-Defensive team. The Celtics’ second-ranked defense combined with Brown’s defensive responsibilities and impact gives him a rock-solid All-Defense case.

Other Improvements

Brown’s playmaking has greatly improved this year. This was a major point of contention for Brown, especially after the conference finals series against the Heat where he struggled to take care of the ball. Brown’s 3.7 assists per game this year are a career-high; his 2.3 turnovers per game are reduced from last year. In March Brown is averaging 3.9 assists and just 1 turnover per game. Brown has gotten noticeably better at reading the floor and making quick decisions.

A big part of Brown’s improved playmaking is establishing a two-man game with him and Kristaps Porzingis. Brown is averaging 1 assist per game to Porzingis, lineup stats highlight this two-man combination’s effectiveness. Furthermore Brown has improved his left hand. This year Brown looks much more comfortable driving with his left hand. In recent games including against the Nuggets Brown drove and finished with his left frequently. These improvements could be crucial come playoff time. Brown spoke about his improvements in a recent quote.

The Last Word On Jaylen Brown

Sure Brown isn’t a top-five level player like his contract suggests. However, he is a top-15 level player whose value and importance to the Celtics makes him worth the money. Brown’s value is often overlooked on a star-studded Celtics team. Nevertheless, Brown has once again improved his all-around game and elevated himself among the league’s best players. Ultimately Brown has proven himself in many ways this year and is certainly living up to his contract.