Celtics President optimistic update on Browns contract

Even with trade rumors surrounding Damian Lillard and the possibility of making a major blockbuster deal looming over the franchise’s head, the Boston Celtics look to be focused on keeping Jaylen Brown in town for the long haul. It’s difficult to argue that the Portland Trail Blazers could obtain a better deal than a probable Boston trade (outside from 1-2 rebuilding clubs), especially if Brown is included.

However, Brown, who is eligible for a super-max deal with the Celtics, would not be tradeable for a full year after signing the deal, complicating matters for Boston if they were considering a drive to acquire Lillard.Even with all of that, Celtics president Brad Stevens sounded upbeat when discussing Brown’s future contract, according to Adam Himmelsbach of the Boston Globe.

“It’s all been good discussion,” Stevens added. “We’ve made it clear that we want Jaylen to stay for a long time.” We’re all looking forward to sitting down, and we have plenty of time. I probably shouldn’t say anything else, but I’m feeling upbeat.”

Himmelsbach also said that “there are no indications that they are offering him [Brown] less than the max” and that the delay is most likely related to the incentive system or the decision on a fifth-year player option. All of this tends to point to the Celtics reaching an agreement with Brown on a long-term contract sooner rather than later.