Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James has thrown his support behind Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown in the race for the NBA’s Most Valuable Player award, expressing surprise that Brown isn’t receiving more consideration. The endorsement came after the Celtics defeated the Lakers 111-89 on Sunday, with Brown leading the charge with 32 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists. James’ comments highlight a growing narrative around Brown’s impact on a Celtics team that has exceeded expectations this season.
“This whole MVP thing, I don’t understand why his name is not getting talked about some as well,” James said following the game, as reported by ESPN. “Like, nobody gave them a shot to start the season. And he’s averaging what, 30? Just under 30? It’s a popularity contest sometimes, I tell you.” The sentiment underscores a debate within the NBA about the criteria for MVP selection, often perceived as favoring established stars and media narratives.
Brown is currently averaging a career-high 29.2 points per game, leading the Celtics to a 37-19 record as of February 23, 2026, placing them second in the Eastern Conference. This success is particularly notable given the team’s significant roster changes and a season-long absence of key player Jayson Tatum due to a ruptured Achilles tendon. The Celtics have as well navigated the loss of Jrue Holiday, Al Horford, and Kristaps Porzingis from their 2024 championship team, making Brown’s performance even more impressive.
James’ praise extends beyond this season. He recalled a moment from nearly a decade ago, after Brown’s first NBA start in 2016, when he told the young player he would become an All-Star and a “great player.” “After the game, he came up to me and he told me in my ear, like, ‘You’re going to be an All-Star one day — you’re going to be a great player,’” Brown shared Sunday night, according to The New York Times. “And he also said, ‘You’re playing for a great coach. Just keep your head up and keep doing (well).’”
The MVP conversation typically centers around players on top teams with statistically dominant performances. Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets has been a frontrunner, and other contenders include Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder and Luka Dončić, who played alongside James for the Lakers. However, Brown’s case is gaining traction due to his leadership and the Celtics’ unexpected success. The Celtics’ record of 37-19 demonstrates their resilience and Brown’s ability to elevate his team despite adversity.
James believes Brown has embraced the challenge of proving doubters wrong. “I think he just used the motivation of a lot of people just saying that they’re going to have a down year,” James said. “The whole championship team pretty much is kind of revamped, and he used it as motivation to keep them afloat. They’re playing great basketball, and it’s because of him and the rest of those guys. He’s taken that next step.”
The Lakers, despite the presence of James, Dončić, and Austin Reaves, struggled against the Celtics, falling to an 89-111 defeat. This loss highlights the Celtics’ strength and Brown’s pivotal role in their success. The game also served as a platform for James to publicly acknowledge Brown’s MVP-caliber play.
As the NBA season progresses, Brown’s performance will be closely scrutinized. The MVP award is often influenced by narrative and media coverage, and James’ endorsement could significantly boost Brown’s profile. The Celtics’ continued success and Brown’s consistent performance will be key factors in determining whether he can secure the coveted award. The regular season concludes in April, with the playoffs following shortly after.
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