Boston Celtics: Jaylen Brown can crack the starting 5 in 2017

Could Jaylen Brown become an every night starter for the Boston Celtics in 2017? There’s a very strong possibility that it happens fairly soon.

Jaylen Brown had a tremendous rookie season for the Boston Celtics last season, and he’s hoping for an even better second year. With his defensive play and scoring ability, could he find himself in the starting lineup before the season ends?

Brown will have to fight to get into the starting lineup, but I think he’ll be there by December. He could fit in a starting lineup that includes Isaiah Thomas, Gordon Hayward, Al Horford and either Marcus Smart or Jae Crowder. Brown can defend almost anyone on the court, and we know he’s willing to as he went after LeBron James last year.

We gave Jaylen Brown a B+ in our 2016-17 player report cards, but we expect him to be even better this season. He will have to take more control and keep the ball when he has the opportunity to score. At some points last year, Brown was passing up open looks. That can’t continue in 2017.

Jaylen Brown has also improved his defensive play. When 76ers guard J.J. Reddick was asked about defenders who stood out to him last season, he mentioned Brown.

"“A guy who did a great job last year was Jaylen Brown. Avery (Bradley) was hurt the first time we played them, so Jaylen guarded me in Boston, and he just did a great job of sticking with me. He has the length, he’s strong, and he’s athletic.”"

Reddick has been in the league for quite some time now, so he knows a good defender when he sees one. With Avery Bradley out of the picture, perhaps Brown becomes Boston’s go-to lock down defender.

Jaylen Brown has also gotten a ton of work in this summer. He was a star for the Celtics in Summer League play, and most recently he led Team World in the NBA Africa Game. He was a stud on the court there too.

Related Story: Brown shows off his skills in Africa

That play shows you all you need to know about Jaylen Brown’s athletic ability. This kid will be a starter someday soon.

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I want Jaylen Brown on the court to start games, and also to finish them. He is an athletic freak that could elevate to superstar levels in the NBA if he continues on the path he’s on. Leadership is growing within Brown as well, and one day he will be the face of this Boston Celtics franchise. How soon do you think Brown will be in their starting lineup?