Why Payton Pritchard wasn’t shocked by Celtics’ Jaylen Brown trade

Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard reflected on Jaylen Brown’s trade to the Philadelphia 76ers. As fans and former teammates turn the page on the Celtics’ surprising trade of Brown to the 76ers ahead of the 2026-27 season, Pritchard offered his honest opinion on the deal. He’s had plenty of time to process it.

Pritchard wasn’t surprised by Brown’s trade to the 76ers. In today’s NBA era, Pritchard knows anything’s possible, as he described it, per CLNS Media’s Bobby Manning.

“It’s a part of the business. So, nothing’s actually really that shocking to me anymore,” Pritchard said. “You’re just used to seeing big things, and I think changes happen all the time. It always sucks to see a brother and a teammate that you played with for a long time go, but you move on, and you get ready to go to war against him.”

However, Pritchard will always remember the invaluable lessons he learned alongside Brown.

“I learned so much from him. So, I’m very grateful for our relationship,” Pritchard added. “He’s obviously a tremendous basketball player. He took me under his wing at times, and I’m very grateful for it.”

Ahead of the Celtics’ 2026-27 season, Pritchard is looking forward to seeing how he and the rest of his teammates respond this upcoming season.

“We didn’t text in the group chat. Everybody deals with different things in their own way,” Pritchard said. “As I said, it’s part of the business though. Things happen. So, big players get moved. Guys need to step up and turn the page.”

Pritchard should see a significant increase in his role.

Payton Pritchard addresses his role ahead of the Celtics’ 2026-27 season

For some, watching the Celtics part ways with Jaylen Brown opens up opportunities for guys like Payton Pritchard and Derrick White. When asked if he’s thought about what Brown’s exit will mean for his role in 2026-27, Pritchard says he hasn’t really considered how it could change his role this upcoming season.

“I haven’t really thought about it. I’m just worried about becoming a better basketball player,” Pritchard said. “And ultimately, that should hopefully lead to more success for our team, and me individually. Really, it’s whatever the team needs. I try to focus in that sense.

“Some of that stuff is out of my control; whatever the coaches decide, and all that. But being the best basketball player possible, adding to my game. Get better and better, become more efficient, will lead to more success.”

Pritchard and the Celtics begin their preseason schedule against the Cavs on October 8 before hosting Brown and the 76ers two days later at TD Garden.

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