Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy voiced strong disapproval of the Boston Celtics' decision to trade Jaylen Brown for Paul George, stating the move does not improve the team.
In a social media post, Portnoy, a vocal Celtics fan, acknowledged that some change was needed involving Brown and Jayson Tatum but expressed dissatisfaction with the return. "I mean, getting back from the Sixers, what’s his face, Paul George. My d–k did not get hard for Paul George," Portnoy said, according to the New York Post. "There’s no way we’re better than we were yesterday."
The betting community also appears to have downgraded the Celtics' prospects, shifting them from Eastern Conference favorites to secondary contenders behind the New York Knicks. Portnoy suggested that if a trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo had fallen through, the Celtics should have maintained their existing roster. "put the toothpaste back in the tube and run it back with their team as constructed."
The Celtics reportedly traded Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for two first-round picks, two second-round picks, and George. George, 36, averaged 17.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.6 assists last season. He also faced a 25-game suspension for violating the NBA's anti-drug policy. George is set to earn $54.1 million this year, with a player option for $56.6 million in the 2027-28 season.
Despite the addition of the veteran George, Portnoy expressed faith in Celtics President Brad Stevens, the former head coach. "I like Brad Stevens. I trust Brad Stevens. I think all Celtics fans love Brad Stevens," Portnoy stated. However, he questioned the team's trajectory, suggesting that Stevens must recognize a potential downgrade. "He has to know we’re worse and, at best, an eight seed. We are an eight seed, see you later right now. No title-contending hopes. Not a real threat. That’s who we are right now. Brad Stevens has to know that. So, I gotta think there’s more coming."
Portnoy also took a swipe at the 76ers' roster and the health status of their star player, Joel Embiid. "Sixers? They could be very good if Embiid stays healthy, which is a one-in-a-million shot," he remarked. He reiterated his belief that further moves are expected from the Celtics' front office, adding, "I just refuse to believe this is it."