Despite ranking among the most accomplished players of his era, Jaylen Brown has long been regarded as a star who isn't a true No. 1 option. The Boston Celtics have navigated the narrative by playing through Brown and Jayson Tatum, as well as a cast of All-Star veterans, but the noise seems to grow louder every time critics believe the 29-year-old will need to step up.
With Tatum sidelined, the All-Stars traded or departed via free agency, and all eyes on Brown, he's proving that he's every bit the No. 1 player skeptics never thought he'd become.
It's been one of the more bizarre narratives in the Association, as Brown is both decorated and accomplished.