The Boston Celtics have spent the offseason reshaping the roster around Jayson Tatum. The trade that sent Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers brought back Paul George and four draft picks. New faces are arriving. The next chapter is taking shape.
But for the players who shared a locker room with Brown, the transition carries an emotional weight that goes beyond roster construction.
Two of Boston’s young players offered a glimpse into what losing Brown actually feels like from the inside.
Harper Comments on Brown
Ron Harper Jr. entered last season with no guarantees. He was fighting for a roster spot on a training camp deal, with no certainty that his NBA career would extend past the fall.
Brown believed in him.
“Obviously, sad to see him go. A guy that I’ve grown close to,” Harper said. “A guy that I have a lot of respect for, and a guy that still trusted me when I was still on an Exhibit 10.”
Harper’s season turned into something nobody predicted. He worked his way into the rotation, eventually earning a spot in the starting lineup for the decisive Game 7 against Philadelphia in the first round. The start did not go as planned, but Brown was a steady presence throughout the climb.
“I remember the message he shared with me, the motivation he’s given me, and the advice he’s given me,” Harper said. “And it sucks to see him go. But this is a business more than anything. So, I wish him luck in the future, except when he plays us.”
GettyRon Harper Jr. of the Boston Celtics
Walsh Felt the Loss Just as Deeply
Jordan Walsh experienced Brown’s mentorship in the everyday moments. Team flights. In-between days at the facility. When the postseason arrived, the two broke down film together on Tyrese Maxey, with Brown offering guidance on how to guard one of the league’s toughest assignments.
“For him to do so many things for me that he’s done, on and off the court, like I’ve always got to show love and appreciate that because he is the realest,” Walsh said. “Obviously, having him gone, that’s a blow.”
Walsh had already watched teammates depart last summer when salary cap decisions forced roster changes. This one landed differently.
“It sucks, it’s tough, it’s a business. We all know this,” Walsh said. “But just it being a business doesn’t make it any more easier, them leaving.”
GettyBOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – APRIL 10: Jordan Walsh #27 of the Boston Celtics attempts a three-point basket against the New Orleans Pelicans during the first half at the TD Garden on April 10, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Brian Fluharty/Getty Images)
Final Word for the Celtics
Paul George will wear No. 13 in Boston next season. The roster is talented. The expectations are high.
But Harper and Walsh made it clear. Losing Brown cost the Celtics more than a Finals MVP. It cost them a teammate who showed up for people when he did not have to.
What Brown meant to the locker room will be hard to replace.
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