stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves across the NBA, the Boston Celtics have agreed to trade All-NBA wing Jaylen Brown to the Los Angeles Lakers, league sources confirmed on Friday afternoon.
The blockbuster deal, which was finalized after several days of high-level negotiations, will send Brown to Los Angeles in exchange for a package centered around Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, multiple future first-round picks, and a pick swap in 2029. The Celtics will also acquire the contract of D’Angelo Russell for salary-matching purposes.
“It’s an aggressive move by the Lakers,” one Western Conference executive said. “They’re clearly going all-in to win now — this is LeBron’s final window, and adding a two-way star like Jaylen changes everything.”
🔁 Full Trade Details:
Lakers Receive:
Jaylen Brown (G/F, 27, All-NBA Second Team 2024–25)
Celtics Receive:
Austin Reaves (G)
Rui Hachimura (F)
D’Angelo Russell (G, expiring contract)
2027 1st-Round Pick (unprotected)
2029 1st-Round Pick (top-3 protected)
2029 Pick Swap
💥 A Shocking Move by Boston
The decision by Boston to part ways with Brown — who just signed a record-breaking $304 million supermax extension last summer — signals a dramatic shift in team-building philosophy under President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens.
While the Celtics enjoyed regular-season dominance in recent years, postseason shortcomings and salary cap concerns appear to have pushed the franchise toward recalibration.
“This wasn’t a decision we took lightly,” Stevens said in a prepared statement. “Jaylen has been a pillar of our organization. But we made a long-term decision to position the franchise for flexibility, sustainability, and future contention.”
💜 Lakers Form New Super Trio
The acquisition of Brown marks the third All-Star-level talent now on the Lakers’ roster, alongside LeBron James and Luka Dončić, who was acquired in a shocking trade from Dallas earlier this month.
Brown’s elite defense, midrange scoring, and playoff experience make him an ideal fit alongside LeBron and Luka. With Brown able to guard multiple positions and operate off the ball, Los Angeles suddenly becomes one of the most formidable “Big Threes” in the modern NBA.
“Jaylen gives us a killer edge on both ends of the court,” said Lakers GM Rob Pelinka. “He’s exactly what we needed — a battle-tested star who fits our culture and mission.”
📉 Boston’s Rebuild or Retool?
While some analysts are calling this the beginning of a rebuild in Boston, others suggest it’s a calculated “retool” around franchise cornerstone Jayson Tatum, who is reportedly supportive of the move.
Austin Reaves provides a crafty playmaker and rising scorer, while Hachimura adds wing depth. The draft assets provide Boston future ammo for trades or young talent.
“This gives Tatum more room to operate and gives Boston a war chest of flexibility they simply didn’t have with two supermax contracts,” said ESPN analyst Tim Legler.
🎯 What’s Next?
The Lakers are expected to pursue veteran free agents in the buyout market to complement their core. Meanwhile, Boston’s front office will be closely watched as it balances competing now with future development.
Both teams are betting big on their vision — one aiming for immediate championship glory, the other for long-term control and roster evolution.
📊 Jaylen Brown Career Stats (Through 2024–25):
22.9 PPG
6.1 RPG
3.5 APG
47.6% FG
36.2% 3PT
2x All-Star
1x All-NBA Second Team
🏀 League Reaction
Reactions across the league were swift and intense.
“The balance of power just shifted again,” tweeted NBA insider Shams Charania.
“Brown, Luka, and LeBron? That’s a scary trio in a seven-game series,” added former All-Star Gilbert Arenas on his podcast.
✅ Final Word
Jaylen Brown to the Lakers isn’t just a blockbuster — it’s a power move that redefines the championship landscape of the NBA. Only time will tell if Boston’s gamble and L.A.’s push will pay off, but one thing is clear: the 2025–26 NBA season just got a whole lot more interesting.
