NBA Rivalry: Tatum and Brown prepare to meet in Philadelphia
The former Celtics duo will face off Tuesday night as the 76ers and Celtics, the top two teams in the East, clash in a highly anticipated matchup.
By Adrian Kovalenko ·
Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum will reunite on the court Tuesday night in Philadelphia, marking the first regular season meeting between the top two teams in the Eastern Conference. The game represents a concrete shift in the league hierarchy, pitting the 76ers, who hold the best record in the NBA at 9-2, against the Celtics, who sit in second at 8-2.
The two players have not spoken since Boston traded Brown to Philadelphia in July. The deal sent the former teammates in opposite directions, with Brown joining a squad that also includes LeBron James. Tatum remains the focal point for Boston, a team that chose to build around him after the transaction.
Brown said Sunday in Chicago that there is no need for conversation between the two stars. He stated that both are on opposing sides and focused on winning. He added that they are not planning on small talk. Tatum, speaking from Milwaukee, described the matchup as another game on the schedule and nothing more than the Celtics versus the Sixers.
The trade ended a partnership that helped Boston win the 2024 NBA title. Tatum missed most of the 2025 season recovering from an Achilles tendon tear sustained during the playoffs. During Tatum's absence, Brown posted career best averages of 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.1 assists for Boston.
The move was driven by financial considerations, as the Celtics sought to reduce payroll by moving one of two players carrying approximately $300 million in contracts. Brown, the 2024 Finals MVP and a five time All Star, was the player selected for the trade. He reacted to the news by throwing his phone across the room.
Tatum said he has no animosity or ill will toward Brown. He noted that the public narrative has shifted away from their shared championship success toward drama. Brown maintained last month that there is no beef between them, though he acknowledged the situation is complex. He said he is focused on leading the 76ers to championship contention.
The 76ers have a 9-2 record and are tied with the Lakers for the best mark in the league. The Celtics are 8-2. Both teams will stream the game on Peacock. Brown said his emotions are in check as he prepares for the matchup.
