Boston Celtics: C’s find new way to lose against San Antonio

Boston Celtics takeaway No. 2) Jaylen Brown’s hot streak

Jaylen Brown continued his stellar play from Sunday’s win over the Magic, finishing with 30 points and six rebounds on 12-of-25 shooting. When the offense was stagnant or when they were low on the shot clock, Brown repeatedly bailed them out, scoring in one-on-one situations.

Jaylen took advantage of the Spurs’ slower defenders both off the catch and in isolation situations, carrying their offense throughout the first half. He has not proven himself to be the main ball-handler in a productive offensive system but can score with almost anyone in the league, especially against San Antonio’s mismatches.

Although Brown excelled in recent games with Jayson Tatum in Health and Safety Protocols, he performs even better with him on the court. Without Tatum, Jaylen is viewed as the one guy on the Boston Celtics that can get his own bucket. When both are healthy, they are allowed to play off each other, creating more space and opportunity by simply being on the court together.

Throughout his tenure, Jaylen Brown has often taken a backseat to Tatum, especially in late-game situations. Now, with Tatum’s recent struggles and Brown’s surging All-Star campaign, coach Ime Udoka should look to give the California product more looks in must-score situations.

This negative trend continued into this contest, with the scorching hot Brown not having a shot attempt seven minutes into the fourth quarter. Ultimately, he had a disappointing last two minutes of the game, including a costly offensive foul and missed layup.

Where Jaylen Brown showcased his growth from being a prospect to a bonified star in 46 minutes, he reverted to his out-of-control driving nature in the final two minutes, greatly costing his team.

However, his performance was promising as a whole, as he looks to take the next step as an offensive playmaker this season.