Boston Celtics fans expressed intense reactions on Wednesday following the announcement of a major trade. Jaylen Brown, a celebrated five-time All-Star and 2024 NBA Finals MVP, moved to the Philadelphia 76ers. In exchange, the Celtics received former All-Star Paul George, along with first-round picks in 2028 and 2031 and second-round picks in 2028 and 2030.
The deal didn’t sit well with many fans. Former Boston Celtics player Kendrick Perkins criticized it heavily, calling it ‘one of the dumbest trades in NBA history.’ On ESPN’s “SportsCenter,” Perkins remarked, “This is a sad day for the Boston Celtics, and as a former Celtic, I do not approve.” He argued, “If you’re going to trade a top 10 player, you should get back at least a top 15 or top 20 player, and Paul George is not that.” Perkins humorously commented on George’s fluctuating performance over the years.
“Paul George hasn’t been consistently good since I was skinny, and that’s been a long time,” Perkins said, describing the trade as involving “Nothing but sloppy seconds.”
According to Perkins, Celtics GM Brad Stevens essentially delivered the 76ers a chance for an NBA Finals appearance by trading Brown. The 76ers boast a roster featuring All-Stars Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid, and rising talent VJ Edgecombe. They also recently defeated Brown and the Celtics in a competitive seven-game playoff series.
The Celtics acquired Paul George, a nine-time All-Star, who was last selected for the All-Star team in 2024. Though a former All-NBA First Team member in 2019 and a two-time All-Defensive Team player, George’s age and consistency raise questions. Last season, he averaged 17.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, shooting 43.9% from the field. These figures aren’t particularly eye-catching.
Despite this, George had strong moments in the playoffs against Boston. His contributions included 16 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists in a Game 5 victory. He followed with a 23-point performance in Game 6.
The upcoming season will be telling. The performance of both teams with their new rosters may determine the winner of this trade.
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