After the Boston Celtics sent Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers, the NBA world was shocked to see a recent NBA Finals MVP get shipped to an Atlantic Division rival.
Former 76ers assistant coach and current Celtics assistant Sam Cassell briefly spoke on the deal.
The ex-Sixers assistant was complimentary of Brown and acknowledged the discussion about how shocking it is that the Celtics cut ties with the All-Star forward, considering the circumstances.
Ex-76ers Coach Gets Honest On Jaylen Brown Trade
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 22: Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics looks on during the second half of their game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on February 22, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Luiza Moraes/Getty Images)
âJaylen has done everything possible for this city. Heâll be missed. But itâs the NBA. Wilt Chamberlain got traded after he averaged 50 points one yearâ¦I wish nothing but the best for Jaylen. Heâs a hell of a basketball player,” Cassell told reporters.
The player-turned-coach also added that the Celtics will “be fine” with Paul George going to Boston and replacing Brown.
Sam Cassell’s 76ers Connection
GettyBOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – DECEMBER 19: Head Coach Joe Mazzulla, left, is held back by Assistant Coach Sam Cassell after he was issued a technical foul during the second half of the game against the Chicago Bulls at TD Garden on December 19, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Bulls defeat the Celtics 117-108. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Before the Sixers acquired Paul George, Sam Cassell was working closely with Tyrese Maxey while on Doc Rivers’ staff.
He joined the Sixers in 2020 after working under Rivers on the Los Angeles Clippers.
The Sixers cut ties with Rivers in 2023. When they hired Nick Nurse to replace Rivers, Cassell was revealed to be on the outs.
The former NBA point guard went to the Celtics to coach under Joe Mazzulla. After winning three NBA championships as a player, Cassell earned his fourth title with the Celtics as a coach in 2024.
While he has earned some consideration to land a head coaching job with teams over time, Cassell remains next to Mazzulla in Boston. He will get a chance to work with Paul George after his run in Philly.
Paul George For Jaylen Brown Trade
GettyBOSTON, MA – MARCH 18: Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics celebrates after a three point basket against the Golden State Warriors during the first quarter at TD Garden on March 18, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo By Winslow Townson/Getty Images)
The Paul George era in Philadelphia was underwhelming.
In 78 games, George produced averages of 16.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.0 assists.
He was brought on with a max deal, with expectations of helping the Sixers get beyond the second round. George’s run will be remembered for a lack of consistency in his health and performances.
In Brown, the 76ers acquired a 10-year NBA veteran with five All-Star selections on his resume. The veteran forward produced averages of 20.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game in 674 games.
Like HEAVY’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on HEAVY
The post Ex-76ers Coach Gets Honest On Jaylen Brown Trade appeared first on HEAVY.