Tatum and Brown have faced consistent scrutiny throughout their careers in Boston. Critics have often questioned whether their playing styles were too similar to coexist effectively and whether their partnership could harm the team’s performance. Despite this skepticism, the duo has proven the doubters wrong, solidifying their reputation as one of the league’s most formidable pairs. Brogdon even referred to Tatum and Brown as the best duo in the NBA today.

“People have always criticized them over the years — they can’t play together, their games are too similar, they’ve heard it all. I think they’ve really come together and figured out how to play well and mesh on the court on both ends. I think they’re great… they’re the best duo in the NBA right now,” Malcom Brogdon said via Celtics on CLNS on X.

The Key Factor: Trust and Complementarity

The key to Jayson Tatum and Brown’s success lies in their mutual trust and ability to complement each other on the court. They’ve developed exceptional chemistry, enabling them to anticipate each other’s actions and make smarter decisions during games. Additionally, they’ve embraced versatility, adapting to the team’s evolving needs in critical moments.

A Dominant Duo in the NBA

Last season, Tatum and Jaylen Brown led the Celtics to an NBA title, a historic achievement that solidified their status as one of the league’s elite duos. Their triumph not only silenced critics but also proved they are capable of achieving the greatest heights in basketball.

With Tatum and Brown leading the charge, the Celtics are poised to remain top contenders in the seasons ahead. Their unparalleled talent, chemistry, and determination make them a force to be reckoned with in the NBA.

Anunoby is tailor-made for what the Knicks needed. They craved a wing-stopper, and they had one of the best in the game. He’s also capable of creating his own shot, drive to the rim, and facilitate for others, not to mention the fact that he was a massive upgrade over the unimpressive RJ Barrett.

Even though losing Immanuel Quickley was a big blow to their team and the second unit, the Knicks got significantly better with that trade. Then again, that doesn’t mean they’re ready to pursue an NBA championship yet.

Fortunately, they do have plenty of assets to keep making trades, and the only reason they made this transaction is because they had another ace up their sleeve. They have a plethora of draft picks to trade and could make a Godfather-like offer most teams won’t be able to turn down. But who could be on their radar now? Let’s break it down.

NBA Rumors: Donovan Mitchell and next trade targets for the Knicks

3. Malcolm Brogdon

This might not seem like a big trade, and he has struggled with injuries over time. However, Malcolm Brogdon embodies everything Tom Thibodeau stands for. He’d pull the strings of the second unit, playing mistake-free basketball and sound defense, all while also contributing in the defensive glass.

Brogdon isn’t a superstar, but he’s a championship-caliber role player. He can play and guard multiple positions, start or come off the bench, and he’s not a liability in the clutch if you need another ball-handler next to the more aggressive Jalen Brunson.

2. Donovan Mitchell

Donovan Mitchell has been tied with a move to New York for years now, and the Knicks tried to acquire him before the Cleveland Cavaliers one-upped them. But with the Cavs missing Darius Garland and Evan Mobley for the foreseeable future, they might not be able to compete this season.

Then again, chances are that Mitchell won’t become available until the offseason. He has yet to sign a contract extension with the Cavaliers and didn’t sound too inclined to do it. Should that be the case, the Knicks would be obvious frontrunners to acquire his services.

1. Zach LaVine

Zach LaVine is the most obvious and most likely trade candidate, not only for the Knicks but for every single team looking to get another 20+ points-per-game scorer. The Chicago Bulls aren’t going anywhere, and he’s already outstayed his welcome under coach Billy Donovan.

The Knicks would be adding another big-time offensive weapon, and they’ve had the defenders and the defensive-minded coach to hide his flaws on that end of the floor. He fits their timeline and is the kind of player who could help them go from pretenders to contenders in the blink of an eye.

However, the Sixers might not have much of a choice at this point. With the start of the NBA season just one week away, they have no leverage right now, especially considering the lack of league-wide interest in Harden’s services.

The Los Angeles Clippers reportedly remain engaged in trade talks for Harden, who also wants to play there. Nonetheless, they’re reluctant to give up two first-round picks and/or Terance Mann on any deal, and they know they’re only bidding against themselves right now.

Clippers Could Pursue Malcolm Brogdon Instead

Even with Russell Westbrook, the Clippers are in need of a lead guard, which was made evident by their reported interest in Jrue Holiday. With that in mind, they could pivot and shift their attention toward Malcolm Brodgon, who should be easier to get.

“Outside factors have also complicated those discussions. Both the Clippers and Sixers made attempts to trade for Jrue Holiday during his brief stay in Portland, and the Clippers continue to have interest in Blazers guard Malcolm Brogdon,” reported Kyle Neubeck of PHLY Sports.

The Portland Trail Blazers have no use for Brogdon with Scoot Henderson and Anfernee Simons there, and they’d gladly part ways with him in return for draft capital. He’s not the scorer or playmaker Harden is, but they don’t need that much offense with Paul George and Kawhi Leonard by his side.

Harden No Longer Trusts The Sixers

This should put plenty of pressure on Morey and the Sixers to try and deal Harden soon. He’s playing ball and has been a professional throughout training camp in the preseason because he’s looking forward to being traded, and his attitude could take a major U-turn if he doesn’t feel like the Sixers are actively trying to get him traded.

Harden has already stated that there’s no way to repair his relationship with Morey. He no longer trusts him, and he has no intention whatsoever of extending his stay with the organization any further:

“For me, it’s just, trusting people you’ve known for over a decade,” Harden said. “And when I got traded here, my whole thing was I wanted to retire a Sixer. I wanted to be here and retire a Sixer. The front office didn’t have that in their future plans. It’s literally out of my control. It’s something I didn’t want to happen, to be in this position. But I’ve got to make a decision for my family.”

Morey has a history of overpricing his assets and holding onto them for long, perhaps longer than he should. At this point, it’s the market — not him — the one that’s setting a price for Harden, and he needs to take whatever the Clippers are willing to give up for him before his trade value plummets even further.

However, Brown has been tangled up in countless trade rumors throughout the course of the years. And not even signing that major extension might be enough to put an end to that.

As a matter of fact, the only player the Celtics would never consider trading besides Jayson Tatum is non-other than Malcolm Brogdon, according to Steve Bulpett of Heavy Sports.

Celtics Won’t Trade Malcolm Brogdon

“They said he’s a valued member of their team, and that’s where it ended,” a league source told Bulpett. “I don’t know if that changes down the line, but we didn’t get anywhere. And I’m pretty sure we aren’t the only team that got that response.”

“They didn’t want to move him in the first place,” said one source involved in the pre-draft maneuverings. “They really like Malcolm. But they had to balance out their roster. They didn’t want to go into another season having to rely so heavily on (Robert) Williams and (Al) Horford. They had a bit of a logjam in the backcourt, and they really needed some insurance up front.”

Ironically, Brogdon was almost traded to get Kristaps Porzingis, so they may have changed their minds about him. Whatever the case, it seems like his future in Boston is safe for now.

Every team needs someone who can get hot off the bench. They need a glue guy that could lead the second unit while their starters get a breather, someone who could even finish games on the floor.

With the NBA season coming to an end, we take a look at every single one of the awards. Here, we discuss the top three candidates to win Sixth Man of the Year, a race that might as well go down to the wire.

NBA Awards: Top 3 Candidates For Sixth Man Of The Year

3. Bobby Portis

Not so long ago, it seemed like Bobby Portis didn’t have a place in the National Basketball Association. His defensive miscues were head-scratching, and his lack of size or range made him a bit of a tweener.

But Portis has fought his way into a rotation and is now one of the biggest contributors to the best team in the league. He’s a never-ending source of energy off the bench, averaging a double-double despite not being a starter.

2. Malcolm Brogdon

The Boston Celtics were already an elite and stacked team long before adding Malcolm Brogdon, but his presence significantly boosted their chances of winning an NBA championship.

Brogdon is one of the smartest players in the league. He can play both guard spots and defend multiple positions, and his ability to play on and off the ball gives Joe Mazzulla plenty of versatility.

1. Immanuel Quickley

Several analysts and even fans threw Immanuel Quickley’s name in multiple trade rumors before the start of the season. Now, he’s the oddsmakers’ favorite to be named Sixth Man of the Year.

Quickley reminds us of a younger version of Jamal Crawford. He’s a bonafide bucket-getter who won’t hesitate to take a big shot when his team is in need of some offense, and it just feels like he could go off for 30 any given night.

You can have a solid starting lineup, but won’t get anywhere unless you have enough depth. You need guys that can fight their way back into a game, or build on a big lead when they’re on the floor.

Every team needs a spark off the bench to thrive, especially when they reach the playoffs. Fortunately, some teams have guys so good that they could be starters somewhere else. Today, we’ll honor them by letting you know about the top 3 Sixth Man of the Year candidates.

NBA Rumors: Top 3 Candidates For Sixth Man Of The Year

3. Malcolm Brogdon

The rich got richer. Malcolm Brogdon was used to be a starter, yet he agreed to come off the bench to make the Boston Celtics even more of a juggernaut, and his impact on both ends cannot be overlooked.

While not the flashiest player, Brogdon is one of the most intelligent guys in the league. He can play on and off the ball, he guards multiple positions, and is averaging 13.1 points, 4.2 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 1.3 triples off the bench on 46/42/88 shooting splits.

2. Jordan Poole

Jordan Poole was once considered one of the worst players in the league. Now, he’s fresh off signing a massive deal to be a big part of the Golden State Warriors’ future, and he’s earned every single penny of that deal.

Poole can play at both guard spots and has been excellent when he’s been asked to start for the Dubs. He’s an explosive scorer and is averaging 20.5 points, 2.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 2.5 three-pointers a night on 43% from the floor.

1. Russell Westbrook

It’s crazy to think that Russell Westbrook is coming off the bench, but that’s just the way his career has panned out. Also, he’s been one of the few bright spots for the Los Angeles Lakers after embracing that role.

The former MVP looks happy on the court again, and he’s already set a record for the most triple-doubles coming off the bench in NBA history. Thus far, he’s averaged 14.3 points, 6.2 rebounds, 7.6 assists, and 1.1 triples per game on 40.% shooting.

Some say defense wins championships; some argue that you need an explosive offense to win in today’s NBA. Whateverthe case, the truth is that no team can win without a serviceable second unit.

That’s why today, we’re going to talk about the top three candidates to win Sixth Man of the Year honors. Notably, all of them could actually be starters somewhere else, but rather contribute to an actual contender.

NBA Rumors: Montrezl Harrell And Sixth Man Of The Year Candidates

3. Malcolm Brogdon

Malcolm Brogdon is one of the smartest players in the league. He can play on and off the ball, guard multiple positions, and is an underrated playmaker. He’s the floor general the Boston Celtics needed off the bench.

Some argue that Brogdon should even start over Marcus Smart to allow Smart to wreak havoc in the second unit. However, Smart is a much better defender, and Brogdon’s injury history is a concern. The Celtics should be a title contender again, so look out for Brogdon.

2. Montrezl Harrell

Montrezl Harrell will have to re-consider his words on Joel Embiid, who he called soft last season. He’s now expected to back him up after signing a two-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers.

We already know what Harrell is capable of. He can dominate both ends of the glass, finish with both hands, and provide big energy off the bench. The only thing standing between him and 6MOY honors will be how many minutes a night he plays.

1. Caris LeVert

Caris LeVert was blossoming as a scorer before suffering a major injury, but he hasn’t let that stophim from getting better. However, he may never start for a stacked Cleveland Cavaliers team that just landed Donovan Mitchell.

Ironically, that might also help his case to be the next Sixth Man of the Year. He’s going to log heavy minutes off the bench for a legit title contender, and he’s capable of scoring in bunches when given enough touches.

Every single team needs players that are willing to put the body on the line. Those scrappy guyswould do whatever it takes to prove their worth and help their team win, regardless of the praise and recognition.

Those players often fly under the radar and don’t get the credit they deserve for their contributions. That’s why today, we’ll honor them by letting you know about the top 5 most underrated players in today’s NBA.

The 5 Most Underrated Players In The NBA

5. Joe Ingles

Joe Ingles isn’t the most athletic guy on earth but you shouldn’t let that fool you. Despite his lack of speed, he’s great at positioning himself on defense and can hold his own vs. stronger and faster players night in and night out.

Not only Ingles is a solid defender but he’s also one of the best passing forwards in the game. He can score from all three levels and has an elite basketball IQ. He can play on and off the ball and make an impact on every single category.

4. Kyle Kuzma

Kyle Kuzma gets a lot of heat on social media because of his personality. He’s outspoken, shares some head-scratching takes, and often talks a big game. That rubs people the wrong way, especially if you play for the Los Angeles Lakers.

Then again, that shouldn’t keep fans from giving Kuzma his flowers. He’s made great strides to become a good defender and he’s proven capable of knocking down shots when his name is called upon. He’s not nearly half as good as he thinks he is, but he’s still pretty good.

3. Fred VanVleet

Fred VanVleet is an example of hard work and resiliency. He went undrafted and kept on grinding. Now, he’s an NBA Champion with a huge paycheck and is starting at shooting guard for the Toronto Raptors.

VanVleet doesn’t get the credit he deserves for his pesky and suffocating defense. He’s also a great shooter, whether if it’s pulling up or in catch-and-shoot. His playmaking also goes unnoticed more often than not, but he’s one of the most versatile combo guards in the NBA.

2. Malcolm Brogdon

Talking about versatility, we must mention Malcolm Brogdon’s name. The former Rookie of the Year isn’t a flashy player or a guy that will wow you with his athleticism, but he’s a smart player who always makes the right decision and rarely makes a mistake.

Brogdon can play both guard spots, play on and off the ball, and is an outstanding defender. His length allows him to guard multiple spots and he continues to improve as a shooter as well. He’s one of the smartest players you’ll find out there.

1. Marcus Smart

Marcus Smart has to be the most underrated player in the NBA. People judging for his scoring averages and being such a high draft pick, but he brings way more to the table than just points. He’s one of the best and most versatiledefenders we’ve seen in decades.

Despite his size, Smart can guard one through five with ease. He doesn’t mind taking a beating and will put his body on the line on every single possession. He’s scrappy, tough, and physical, and will get in your face to get the job done. Also, he’s improved as a three-point shooter and is a solid playmaker but his biggest traits have to be his leadership and relentlessness.

Nonetheless, given the way he’s played as of late, it seems like ‘Humble Moses’ will still make the All-Star team, as he’s been turning a lot of heads among the league’s coaches, including Hall of Famer Steve Nash.

Apparently, the two-time NBA MVP has been quite impressed with Brogdon’s game this season, as he made it a focal point of his gameplan when the Brooklyn Nets visited the Indiana Pacers last night.

Steve Nash Says Malcolm Brogdon Is An All-Star

“They have an All-Star point guard in Malcolm Brogdon,” Nash said after the game, backing the former Rookie of the Year award winner to get a much-deserved nod after such an impressive campaign.

Thus far, Brogdon is averaging a career-high 21.4 points to go along with 4.0 rebounds, 6.6 assists, 1.3 steals, and 2.6 three-pointers per game on 44.2/38.6/89.3 shooting splits and 35.7 minutes per game.

The Milwaukee Bucks must be regretting their decision to let him walk. He’s proven to be one of the biggest bargains around the league right now thanks to his ability to play and guard multiple spots and play on and off the ball. Hopefully, he’ll get the credit he deserves and will be an All-Star this season.

The Pacers parted ways with Victor Oladipo, one player that gave this team hope to be competitive and until he suffered a ruptured quad tendon in his right knee, was one of the most promising players in the NBA.

Dipo repeatedly said he wanted to win and it would have been better if he could have done it in Indiana, but he seemed less and less interested in continuing with the team from last season. Victor was reportedly interested in a trade and the Pacers granted his wish on Wednesday.

Malcolm Brogdon says the Pacers won’t be hurt without Victor Oladipo

Oladipo is now part of Houston Rockets, replacing James Harden as the starting shooting guard of the team. He was great in Indy but the team doesn’t feel like they will miss Oladipo that much. At least that’s what Malcolm Brogdon believes.

The point guard had nothing but good things to say about his former teammate but he made it clear that the Pacers will be fine without Dipo, as the team can overcome this loss and keep playing good basketball.

“This is a steady team,” Brogdon stated, via Pacers insider Scott Agness. “This is a mature, becoming a veteran group that’s been together for a while. We lost a very good player, but this team is gonna continue to play good ball.”

They confirmed they will be good without the 2018 Most Improved Player with a huge win over the Portland Trail Blazers, which helped Brogdon confirm his point. That was all the proof they needed to convince the rest of the league and themselves that they can compete.

“We handled a really good team tonight, on the road,” Brogdon said. “This was a statement win for us and now we have to build on it.”

Having players like Brogdon, Domantas Sabonis, who is having a tremendous season, and Myles Turner, this team can make a lot of noise in the East. They’re often overlooked but the Indiana Pacers can actually compete, even more, when they have TJ Warren back on the lineup.