Celtics assistant coach Sam Cassell has offered a measured perspective on the trade that sent Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers, emphasizing that such moves are a part of the NBA's business.
"We won a championship with Jaylen Brown in Boston," Cassell said in an interview with WBZTV. "Jaylen has done everything possible for this city… He’ll be missed, but it is the NBA. Wilt Chamberlain got traded after he averaged 50 points one year. So it happens."
Cassell, who has been with the Celtics for three seasons, added, "Trades happen in this league. I wish nothing but the best for Jaylen Brown. He’s a hell of a basketball player, a great person, and life goes on."
Brown, who was drafted third overall in 2016, spent a decade with the Celtics. During his tenure, he earned five All-Star selections and two All-NBA honors. He was instrumental in the team's multiple NBA Finals appearances, including capturing Finals MVP in their 2024 championship run.
Following an Achilles injury to Jayson Tatum in May 2025, Brown took on a more significant offensive role, averaging 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.1 assists. He helped the Celtics secure the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference in the 2025-2026 season.
Cassell, whose playing and coaching careers have collectively garnered four championships, acknowledged the emotional impact of Brown's departure. However, he expressed confidence in the team's ability to adapt.
"We’ll be fine," Cassell assured. "Yeah, we’ll be fine. We’ll be fine. We’ll figure it out. The game’s played on the basketball court. We’ll figure that part out."