After a disastrous ending to the 2019 NBA Playoffs, the Boston Celtics revamped their team. They look to usher in a new era. Part of that era is shooting guard Jaylen Brown. The Celtics expect Brown’s production to increase this upcoming season. To ensure their future, the Celtics reportedly offered Brown a 4-year, $80 million contract extension. However, it was reported that Brown turned down the offer to seek more money.
Celtics have offered Jaylen Brown a 4-year, $80M extension, per @ChrisBHaynes
Brown "believes in his ability to be a star and is pursuing a bigger offer" pic.twitter.com/Fb0QS3VTFB
— Bleacher Report NBA (@BR_NBA) October 16, 2019
He will enter this season under the final year of his rookie contract and will become a free agent in summer 2020. Does Brown deserve an extension? Is he taking the right approach in negotiations?
Jaylen Brown Turns Down Extension from the Boston Celtics
Jaylen Brown by the Numbers
Brown has completed three seasons in the NBA. He took a big leap in his sophomore year, finishing with 14.5 points and 4.8 rebounds per game while shooting 46.5 percent from the field. Last year, Brown’s overall production was similar. But, he finished with 13.0 points per game, which is a decrease from his sophomore year. Also, Brown’s minutes per game (25.9) and three-point percentage (34.4) took a dip. Many factors played into his noticeable slip. He only started 25 games last season, which was a significant drop from starting 70 games the year before. Also, there were changes in the lineup. Last year, the Celtics inserted a healthy Gordon Hayward into the rotation. He averaged the same amount of minutes as Brown. The Celtics also gave Jayson Tatum more minutes and scoring opportunities. Brown was the victim of a wing-heavy rotation. He became the third wheel behind Tatum and Hayward.
Jaylen Brown Is Betting on Himself
Brown has set high expectations for himself. He believes he can increase his overall numbers. His confidence, along with a new haircut, has fans wondering about his future. With Kyrie Irving and Al Horford gone, Brown will see an increase in minutes. He is not slated to be a starter as of yet but he will be the sixth-man for the Celtics. His potential is boundless given he was selected third overall in the 2016 NBA Draft. Last year was a learning curve for him. He looks to have a promising 2019-20 campaign.
Does He Deserve an Extension?
The numbers suggest Brown does not deserve an extension right now. Last year showed he still has a lot to work on. The media, especially the Boston Globe, became very critical of Brown, citing him as the reason for the Celtics’ failure. However, the team offering him an extension shows how much they value him. He is one of the top young talents in the NBA. He must perform at a high level this season. The Celtics will continue to roll the dice with Hayward, as they look for him to play up to his contract. Also, Tatum looks to take a major leap. Brown has the opportunity to increase the offer. He can propel himself into being a top-five free agent next summer.
Main Photo: