Celtics' Jayson Tatum speaks on Jaylen Brown trade after unflattering report emerges

And not just any team, but an Eastern Conference and Atlantic Division rival. The Celtics and 76ers will meet four times this upcoming season. It's going to feel odd for Tatum after playing with Brown for his first nine seasons. It may also help him remember more of the good times. 

"It's tough. But it just makes you appreciate the moments and the time that we had," Tatum said. "Obviously, it came to an abrupt ending, but it doesn't mean that it wasn't super successful. Great years, obviously, that he gave to the city and organization."

Amazing years, indeed. Brown and Tatum helped Boston raise its 18th championship banner during the 2023-24 season. But after winning the title, the Celtics haven't been the same. 

Over its past two seasons, Boston failed to reach the Eastern Conference Finals. This past season, they blew a 3-1 lead to the 76ers in the first round of the playoffs. Perhaps the postseason frustrations are one reason Brown and Tatum may have drifted apart. 

They were so focused on leading the team back to the mountaintop that they forgot to maintain their off-court friendship. Tatum tearing his right Achilles tendon in May 2025 didn't help matters. He missed most of last season while rehabbing from the injury. 

So, Brown and Tatum don't seem like two friends who had a falling-out, but they may have been two friends who grew apart. Now, they're even farther apart after the trade. That may have Tatum wishing he hadn't taken his friendship with Brown for granted.