Something to prove: Why Jaylen Brown may set his sights on MVP in 2024–25

Jayson Tatum has been the topic of discussion for the vast majority of the summer. He helped lead the Boston Celtics to the franchise’s 18th Championship banner, was named the NBA 2K 25 cover athlete, and received an abundance of media support after he was limited during the United States’ gold medal run.

Despite it seemingly being the “summer of Tatum,” it may be reigning NBA Finals MVP Jaylen Brown who has the most to prove. Given he’s operated as a Robin while putting up Batman numbers, Brown could be in store for a huge 2024/2025 campaign that solidifies his place as one of the NBA’s top dogs.

The obvious points of emphasis developed this summer. Brown was arguably the most consistent player during the Celtics’ Finals run and then was unceremoniously left off of the Team USA roster. During the NBA Playoffs, the Georgia native averaged 23.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.2 steals during the Postseason and was a force to be reckoned with.

Even with Brown’s strong season and tournament showing, there has still been a lingering feeling that the C’s are still “Tatum’s team.” Whether or not you personally agree with this sentiment is irrelevant. For a competitor such as Jaylen Brown, this statement illustrates a lack of respect for his past success and future ceiling.

There are several squads that would immediately agree to rebuild their franchise around Brown, but he has not received that kind of praise because he is teammates with another legitimate star as well as a slew of elite role players.

Jaylen Brown is a mentally tough player who thrives under pressure

Something as small as the “state your source” controversy shows that the 27-year old is not someone to be taken lightly when it comes to mental warfare. He seems to be a player who feeds off of doubters and plays with an edge that could take over any game at any moment.

When Tatum went cold during the Postseason, we saw him begin to operate as a playmaker. It is not a stretch to say that these skills will carry over into a fresh season and ultimately help Brown, even if Tatum himself continues to be a shoot player.

Both Tatum and Brown will be playing with a lot to prove, but it is evident that Brown will be particularly eager to shine and show once again why he was named NBA Finals MVP.