Ranking the top 50 NBA players of next season: 40-31

BOSTON, MA - DECEMBER 28: Jaylen Brown #7 and Kemba Walker #8 of the Boston Celtics talk during a game against the Toronto Raptors at TD Garden on December 28, 2019 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 Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) /

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31. Jaylen Brown

The leap that Jaylen Brown made last season was somewhat ignored because of the one made by his teammate Jayson Tatum but do not ignore what is right in front of your face. Jaylen Brown will be in the conversation for the All-Star game and is a two way force in the game.

This season his numbers were up across the board. He improved to average 20.3 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.1 steals. His shooting improvement was further evidence of his growth in the game, shooting a blistering 38.2 percent from distance on a career-high 5.9 attempts per game. His offensive game continues to grow and if he was on plenty of other teams he would be the premier young prospect. Here he is able to thrive without the pressure of being a number one option.

Often tasked with the toughest wing assignment on the other end of the court, Brown contributes on both ends of the court in a way that cements the Boston Celtics as one of the favorites in the Eastern Conference. Tatum will get the highlights. Marcus Smart is the team’s heart and soul. Kemba Walker helps the offense run smoothly. Jaylen Brown does all the rest and does it exceptionally.

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