The Boston Celtics entered the 2025-26 season surrounded by uncertainty, but thanks to the emergence of Jaylen Brown as a true franchise leader, they now find themselves firmly in the championship conversation. Sitting at 47-23 and second place in the Eastern Conference, Boston has defied expectations following a turbulent offseason and the absence of Jayson Tatum.

After Tatum suffered a torn Achilles during the 2025 NBA Playoffs, many expected the Celtics to take a step back.

That outlook only intensified after the departures of key contributors like Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford, and Luke Kornet.

Instead, Brown elevated his game to new heights, delivering one of the most complete seasons of his career.

Averaging a career-best 28.5 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 5.2 assists, Brown has anchored the Celtics on both ends of the floor. His consistency and leadership have not gone unnoticed.

That is certainly the case with the hosts of ESPN’s PTI, Michael Wilbon and Tony Kornheiser, who both believe he deserves serious consideration for the NBA’s most prestigious individual honor.

“If Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs somehow catch OKC Thunder for first place in the West, I will cast a vote [for him],” Wilbon said.

“It’s a regular season award for Victor Wembanyama, who isn’t just the face of the NBA, he’s the face of worldwide basketball, which is a good thing for basketball.

“Jaylen Brown, who you were early on, I’m [on] right now. Jaylen Brown may be leaning at the tape.”

Kornheiser echoed that sentiment, emphasizing Brown‘s reliability throughout the season. “I will say this: if I had a vote today, I would look for Jaylen [as NBA MVP].

“That could change in a week because Jaylen Brown has been so resolute and dependable in the absence of Jayson [Tatum].”

Wilbon added: “I agree totally, yes. Boston is in second place in the East, and San Antonio is in second place in the West.”

Rising above adversity in Boston

The case for Brown extends beyond statistics. His ability to guide a reshaped Celtics roster through adversity has become central to his MVP candidacy.

With Tatum now returning to the fold, Boston looks even more dangerous heading toward the postseason.

Support for Brown has also come from franchise legend Paul Pierce, who has been vocal about the forward’s impact.

“I think Brown is having an MVP season,” Pierce said after participating in the first-ever Causeway Classic event at TD Garden.

“I mean, not enough is being said on how he’s held down the fort for pretty much all year. … To be able to still elevate your game in your 10th year is pretty amazing, because most of the time, guys are who they are by the time they’re in their fourth, fifth year.

“But just to see his maturation process at this stage. And it’s just unfortunate that he’s not in MVP talks like he should be.”

Earlier this year, Pierce even compared Brown to Rodney Dangerfield due to the lack of recognition he receives.

“I’ve been saying this about Jaylen Brown for years now,” Pierce said on No Fouls Given.

“There’s not a better two-way player – I said this about three or four years ago – he’s the best two-way player in the NBA. Now he’s being able to showcase his skills on a whole new level minus Jayson Tatum.”