Story perspectives

Celtics trade Brown to Sixers for George, picks; critics balk

7/5/2026

Summary

Celtics Trade Brown

Celtics traded Jaylen Brown to the 76ers for Paul George, a protected 2028 first-round pick (Clippers swap), a 2031 first-rounder, and two second-rounders.
Brown’s $285 million, five-year contract includes $57.1-$64.9 million salaries and George’s $211.5 million, four-year deal includes a $54 million salary.
Celtics said the trade was not finance-driven, with Robert Parish, Paul Pierce and ESPN analysts calling it poor, saying the Sixers got Brown for free and net rating improves when he sits.

Summary

Brown Slams Trade

Jaylen Brown said on Twitch stream that he felt a lack of respect from the Celtics during the trade.
Jaylen Brown’s key card was rejected when he tried to enter the Celtics facility after the trade.
Jayson Tatum posted an Instagram story thanking Jaylen Brown for nine years and wishing him success.
Jaylen Brown condemned the use of anonymous sources, naming Bobby Marks, Colin Cowherd and Stephen A. Smith.

History

Historical Context

Paul George’s July 6 2017 trade from Indiana to Oklahoma City for Victor Oladipo and Domantas Sabonis marked the league’s shift toward multi-player blockbusters. The pattern reappeared when he signed a four-year, $212 million deal with the Philadelphia 76ers in 2024 and was dealt to Boston on July 1 2026, showing how franchises trade stars and assets to manage windows and salary caps.

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Celtics Trade Brown

Celtics traded Jaylen Brown to the 76ers for Paul George, a protected 2028 first-round pick (Clippers swap), a 2031 first-rounder, and two second-rounders.
Brown’s $285 million, five-year contract includes $57.1-$64.9 million salaries and George’s $211.5 million, four-year deal includes a $54 million salary.
Celtics said the trade was not finance-driven, with Robert Parish, Paul Pierce and ESPN analysts calling it poor, saying the Sixers got Brown for free and net rating improves when he sits.

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