As the Boston Celtics brace for a turbulent 2025–26 campaign, legendary basketball analyst Bob Ryan has stirred debate with an assessment of Jaylen Brown’s ability to lead the team in the absence of Jayson Tatum.
Speaking on his podcast, Ryan didn’t mince words, suggesting that while Brown is a “wonderful player,” he may not be equipped to carry the Celtics to elite status in the Eastern Conference.
“I like him, he’s fine. He’s a wonderful player,” Ryan said. “But I agree, there’s a level of hierarchy in all sports. He’s at the next level, the very good level. But he’s not at that level, I don’t think. Just a chance to prove everybody wrong. That’s no problem… But they’re going to be lucky in that 7–8 mix”.
The Celtics enter the season without their franchise cornerstone, Jayson Tatum, who is sidelined with a serious Achilles injury. With a depleted roster following the departures of Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porziņgis, the spotlight now falls squarely on Brown. The 28-year-old All-Star is coming off a season where he averaged 22.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists, despite battling a meniscus injury.
Yet Ryan’s skepticism stems not from Brown’s stats, but from what he perceives as a lack of top-tier leadership qualities. He argues that Brown has thrived in a secondary role, often benefiting from defensive schemes focused on Tatum. With those dynamics now flipped, Ryan questions whether Brown can elevate his game and galvanize a team in flux.
Ryan’s prediction that Boston will be “lucky” to land in the 7–8 seed range reflects broader concerns about the team’s trajectory. Rising squads like the Orlando Magic and Detroit Pistons are gaining momentum, while the Knicks and Cavaliers boast deeper, more balanced rosters. Without Tatum and a proven supporting cast, the Celtics may find themselves battling just to avoid the play-in tournament.
Despite the doubts, Ryan acknowledges that Brown has an opportunity to silence critics.
“Just a chance to prove everybody wrong,” he said.
A challenge that could define Brown’s legacy in Boston.
