Teams like the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers strengthened their rosters and look prepared to compete for the top spot in the East. In contrast, the Boston Celtics have suffered a sharp decline. With Jayson Tatum out for the entire season and Kristaps Porzingis plus Jrue Holiday traded away, the team no longer carries the same level of expectation around the NBA.

From the outside, Boston’s hopes seem slim. However, their leader Jaylen Brown has made it clear to reporters that he feels readier than ever to guide this new Celtics era and find success, even if few believe in them.

Although Porzingis battled injuries during his two seasons, his ability to space the floor and his defensive length gave teammates like Holiday the confidence to apply more pressure against opponents. Veterans such as Al Horford and Luke Kornet also contributed depth and experience.

Now all of them are gone. Brown admitted in his comments that the team lost half of its core but emphasized that he isn’t focused on what left, only on what’s ahead. He described this as a new era for the Celtics, said he wished his former teammates well, called them great to play with, and acknowledged it was sad to see them go. He also added that everything has changed and the team will see how things unfold.

With new arrivals like Anfernee Simons and Chris Boucher, Brown expressed his belief that there is enough talent to grow collectively. He urged fans not to be influenced by outside narratives, pointing out that some people claim he might be distracted by streaming but insisting that he is more focused than ever in his life. He warned that critics will try to create a story around him but stressed he is simply doing what he always does.

Over the last five seasons, Brown has been a four-time All-Star, often in a secondary role next to Tatum. That setup highlighted his talent but limited his recognition, as he was often viewed as the “Robin” to Tatum’s “Batman.”

Now, for the first time in his career, Brown will be Boston’s primary offensive option and main playmaker. At just 28 years old, if he can lead the Celtics to a top-three finish in the East while posting career-best numbers, he could elevate his place in conversations about the league’s elite.

By the end of the 2025-26 season, the perception of Brown may shift from being seen as a permanent sidekick to being recognized as a player capable of carrying a competitive franchise on his shoulders. That’s why Brown is so determined to prove what he is made of.