Jaylen Brown for MVP? LeBron James: “He’s Made the Leap”
Brown is averaging nearly 30 points per game and has Boston near the top of the East. For LeBron James, his name should be front and center in the MVP race
After a night that reignited the NBA’s most iconic rivalry, a powerful endorsement followed. Not from just any observer, but from LeBron James (the first player in NBA history to surpass 43,000 career points). And the recipient wasn’t a teammate, but a star from the historic rival: Jaylen Brown.
LeBron Backs Jaylen Brown for MVP
Following the decisive 111-89 win in which the Boston Celtics defeated the Los Angeles Lakers, James chose to shift the spotlight to Brown, who delivered a complete performance: 32 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists and 3 steals.
The four-time MVP didn’t mince words:
I don’t understand why his name isn’t mentioned more for MVP. At the start of the season, nobody gave Boston a chance. He’s averaging almost 30 a game. Sometimes it’s a popularity contest.
LeBron James
Coming from one of the most influential players in the history of the game, it sounded like a public validation.
MVP Numbers and Celtics Second in the East
The win over the Los Angeles Lakers pushed Boston to 37-19, the second-best record in the Eastern Conference. A result far from guaranteed given the circumstances.
Brown is having the best season of his NBA career:
- 29.2 points per game
- 7.0 rebounds
- 4.8 assists
Career highs across every key statistical category.
Yet the most compelling factor isn’t just the raw production. Boston has had to reinvent itself: Jayson Tatum has been out for the entire season while rehabbing a torn Achilles tendon; and there were major departures from the 2024 championship roster, including Jrue Holiday, Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis.
According to James, that’s precisely what strengthens Brown’s case:
A lot of people said they’d take a step back this year. He’s used all of that as motivation. He’s kept the team afloat. He’s made the leap.
LeBron James
Here, the conversation shifts from talent to leadership.
“I’m the Best Two-Way Player in the World”
For his part, Brown didn’t shy away from the topic. Without apparent arrogance, but with firm conviction, he outlined his MVP résumé:
I feel like I’m the best two-way player in the world. I impact the game on both ends. I’m available every night, which isn’t a given. I’m a leader. I help my team play with confidence. I’m a winner.
Jaylen Brown
A strong statement built on three pillars: defensive impact, durability and leadership. Elements that don’t always fully emerge from analytics alone.
Jaylen Brown MVP: Legitimate Case or Media Blind Spot?
The question now is inevitable: is Brown truly in the MVP race, or does his name remain on the media fringe?
His profile combines:
- elite offensive production
- tangible defensive impact
- leadership in a complex basketball context
- a strong team record
If the MVP honors overall value rather than just narrative dominance, the case is there. If visibility and marketable storylines weigh heavier, the debate remains open.
One thing is certain: when LeBron James publicly endorses Jaylen Brown for MVP, the discussion can no longer be ignored.