Celtics analyst corrects claim that Jaylen Brown demanded trade

A Celtics color analyst corrected his report regarding Jaylen Brown's exit from Boston on Monday.

Brian Scalabrine, who works for NBC Sports Boston, initially told listeners on his SiriusXM NBA Radio show that Brown demanded a trade from the franchise. He claimed the forward asked the organization directly, not through the media. Scalabrine also stated that Brown wanted to join the Milwaukee Bucks and spoke with teammates about moving to that market.

Hours after the initial broadcast, Scalabrine adjusted his account during the NBC Sports Boston pregame show. He said he received 48 calls to clarify the situation. After reviewing the details, he stated that Brown technically did not demand a trade. Scalabrine explained that he simplified the situation by calling it a demand. He admitted that the phrasing caused confusion.

Scalabrine detailed the new understanding of the events. He said Brown presented a list of demands to the team. The forward told the organization to meet those conditions or trade him. One potential demand involved a 140 million dollar extension. Brown would have been eligible for that contract this offseason. Scalabrine said he had not fully investigated all the details before his first report.

The trade moved Brown from the Celtics to the Philadelphia 76ers. The deal also sent Paul George and four future draft picks to Boston. This transaction replaced an earlier plan that might have sent Giannis Antetokounmpo to Boston in exchange for Brown. The Miami Heat beat the Celtics for Antetokounmpo, leading to the final arrangement with Philadelphia.

Tensions between Brown and former teammate Jayson Tatum have drawn public attention since last Thursday. Tatum commented on Brown's account of the trade using an emoji that implied the story was untrue. Tatum said on Friday that he had no beef with Brown and would welcome a conversation. He described the controversy as frustrating. Brown responded on Saturday by suggesting a friendly dynamic between the two players. He told Tatum to stay ready at all times.

Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla spoke on Sunday about the situation. He expressed gratitude for Brown's accomplishments. Mazzulla stated that the team is focused on Jayson Tatum. He called Tatum the best player and the guy with the highest character on the roster. Scalabrine noted on Monday that he does not understand why Brown would be angry at Tatum if he requested a move.

President of basketball operations Brad Stevens explained the team's decision in July. He said the Celtics could no longer sustain two high usage players who controlled 70 percent of the salary cap. Stevens acknowledged that the trade was unpopular. He noted that many people believe the move will be seen as wrong. The Celtics and 76ers are scheduled to play their first game of the season in Philadelphia on November 10.