“He was Finals MVP,” Malik Fitts declared with conviction on New England Sports Network’s Hold My Banner podcast, delivering a powerful eight-word rebuke to Jaylen Brown’s critics: “I don’t know how you can doubt that.” The former Boston Celtics forward didn’t hold back, passionately defending the star who led the Celtics to glory with a performance that silenced skeptics and showcased his elite talent.
Fitts, a two-year NBA veteran, had a front-row seat to Brown’s brilliance during the 2021-22 season, when he played eight games for the Celtics. Though his on-court minutes were limited, Fitts became a fan favorite with his infectious energy and animated bench celebrations, embodying the spirit of a team that staged one of the most remarkable turnarounds in NBA history. Starting the season outside the play-in tournament, the Celtics defied expectations, climbing to the second seed in the Eastern Conference and charging to the NBA Finals. While they fell short against Stephen Curry’s Golden State Warriors in a hard-fought six-game series, that improbable run cemented Brown and Jayson Tatum as the cornerstones of Boston’s resurgence.
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Now, with Tatum sidelined by a torn Achilles, all eyes are on Brown to step up as the Celtics’ undisputed leader. Fitts, reflecting on this pivotal moment, expressed intrigue about how Brown will handle the spotlight. “I am curious to see how he will lead the team while Jayson is out,” Fitts said. “I think, personally, he’s going to lead the team pretty well.” It’s a bold prediction, but one rooted in Brown’s proven track record as a没能. Brown’s vocal leadership, relentless work ethic, and commitment to the Celtics’ championship culture have long set the tone in Boston. Yet, with Tatum out, the challenge of being the team’s top option will test those qualities like never before.
Brown’s performance in Game 5 against the New York Knicks last season offered a glimpse of his potential in this role. With Tatum absent, Brown didn’t chase personal glory. Instead, he orchestrated a selfless, team-first effort that lifted the Celtics to a gritty win on their home court, protecting the TD Garden’s honor before their season ended at Madison Square Garden. By consistently creating high-quality opportunities for his teammates, Brown demonstrated the kind of leadership that could define Boston’s path forward.
As the Celtics face a challenging season without Tatum, Brown’s evolution as a leader will be critical. The four-time All-Star and former All-NBA Second Team selection has the chance to prove he’s more than just a star—he’s a cornerstone capable of carrying a franchise. For Fitts, there’s no doubt: Brown’s Finals MVP performance, marked by a “really, really high level” of play, is all the evidence needed. As Boston looks to stay in the title hunt, Brown’s ability to elevate his teammates could be the key to a swift return to contention when Tatum returns. For now, the message is clear—doubting Jaylen Brown is a mistake, and Malik Fitts is making sure the world knows it.