Celtics Announce Jaylen Brown News Before Bucks Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Mar 2, 2026 2:41 PM ET

The Boston Celtics have solidified themselves as true contenders in the Eastern Conference, and they could emerge as the clear frontrunners if superstar Jayson Tatum returns for the NBA playoffs.

Even if Tatum remains sidelined with his Achilles injury, Boston is still in strong hands with small forward Jaylen Brown carrying the offensive load.

Brown has taken over as the team’s primary scoring option and has thrived in the role. The 29‑year‑old is averaging a career‑high 29.0 points, 7.1 rebounds and 5.0 assists while shooting 48.2% from the field and 34.9% from beyond the arc across 54 games.

His efficiency has remained steady despite the increased usage, and he has Boston sitting second in the East with just weeks remaining in the regular season.

Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) © Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

As the Celtics prepare for Monday’s road matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks, they are looking to secure a third straight win.

The challenge grew tougher with Giannis Antetokounmpo returning for Milwaukee after a lengthy absence, and it became even more difficult once Boston released its official injury report.

The team announced on X that Brown would not be available Monday due to an illness. While it is not an injury setback, the Celtics will still be shorthanded. Brown’s next chance to return will come Wednesday at home against the Charlotte Hornets.

Injury Report for tonight at MIL:

Jaylen Brown - Illness (Non-Covid) - OUT
Neemias Queta - Rest - OUT
Jayson Tatum - Right Achilles Repair - OUT
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) March 2, 2026

Despite the illness, Brown’s season has been everything Boston could have hoped for. He earned his fifth All‑Star selection and is positioned to claim his second career All‑NBA honor once the season concludes.

But individual accolades are secondary for Brown, who is focused on chasing his second NBA championship. He has already proven he can shine on the league’s biggest stage, winning Finals MVP during the 2023–24 title run.

Brown’s absence may be temporary, but his importance to Boston’s ceiling is undeniable. His growth as a scorer and playmaker has kept the Celtics among the league’s elite, and his return to full strength will be essential as the postseason approaches.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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