Philadelphia Makes Its Move
The Philadelphia 76ers pulled the trigger on Wednesday, acquiring five time All Star Jaylen Brown from the Boston Celtics in exchange for Paul George, two first round picks, and two second round picks. The deal was reported's Shams Charania.
The picks heading to Boston include a 2028 first rounder that converts into a swap more favorable to the Celtics and a 2031 unprotected first rounder. Philadelphia is betting big that Brown paired with Tyrese Maxey can deliver a championship.
76ers Now Eyeing LeBron James
Fresh off the Brown acquisition, reports from The Athletic's Tony Jones indicate that Philadelphia is now weighing a play for LeBron James. If the 76ers can land both, they would instantly become the Eastern Conference favorites alongside the Giannis Antetokounmpo led Miami Heat.
Brown averaged career highs of 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.1 assists last season while carrying Boston as Jayson Tatum recovered from a torn Achilles. He is 29 years old with over $183 million remaining on his contract.
What Boston Gets Back
Paul George heads to Boston at 36 years old. The nine time All Star averaged 22.6 points last season with the 76ers but questions remain about his durability. The draft picks give Boston long term flexibility.
The Celtics had been shopping Brown for weeks after their first round playoff exit. The relationship between the front office and the player had become strained beyond repair.
The NBA Landscape Shifts Again
This is the latest blockbuster in an offseason that has completely reshuffled the league. Giannis to Miami, Kawhi Leonard to Toronto, LaMelo Ball to Minnesota, Ja Morant to Portland, and now Brown to Philadelphia. The 2026-27 season looks nothing like the previous one.
