Durability—one of the key traits that made Jaylen Brown a reliable figure in the Celtics over the past seven seasons. However, his 2024-25 season journey started with a few speed breakers. With the swingman missing the last two games due to his recent injury, the question remains over his participation in the upcoming matchup against the Warriors.

The franchise has updated its injury report, and Kristaps Porzingis is no longer the only player ruled out for tonight’s game. His teammate, Jaylen Brown, has now joined him on the sidelines. The Latvian has been out since late June following a retinaculum surgery and could return to the court next month, according to Shams Charania. Meanwhile, this will mark the third consecutive game Brown will miss due to his injury.

Brown is dealing with a hip strain that sidelined him after the game against the Hornets. Prior to that, he performed consistently, averaging over 25 points in six games. His defensive contributions were top notch too, with 7.2 rebounds and 1.5 steals per night. However, the Celtics head coach does not seem too concerned about his injury.

On 98.5 The Sports Hub, when Joe Mazzulla was asked about Brown’s status, he clarified that he was “not concerned.” Mentioning that Brown is “doing well” the HC added, “It’s a strain, and he’s working really hard in treatment every day and just kind of working to get back at it. So, not concerned, and I don’t think he is either.”

While the injury usually takes a week to completely heal and sometimes requires surgery as mentioned by the host, Mazzulla said it was a “day-to-day” situation, which is good news for the supporters. However, the HC couldn’t confirm Porzingis’ return date but highlighted that his rehab is going well.

Anyway, there’s no need for the Celtics to rush Brown’s return, as their 7-1 record is enough to establish their supremacy. However, his presence against the Warriors would have made their case much stronger stronger.

Jaylen Brown’s numbers against the Warriors

The rivalry between the two teams has reached new heights in recent times. The sides have been neck-and-neck in the last three regular-season matchups, each winning three games. And Jaylen Brown played a major role in it, making significant contributions to the team’s success.

In the six appearances, Brown maintained an average of 26 points alongside grabbing 7.5 rebounds. The NBA champion showcased stunning shooting skills (46.3%) from the field boosting his team’s confidence against the sharpshooters of the Dubs. He also helped create a rhythm for the team through his partnership with Jayson Tatum.

With Tatum in peak form, Brown can afford some time off the court. After all, the Celtics are set to face Steve Kerr’s Warriors—the same coach who has played a role in helping Tatum elevate his scoring this season (Tatum wants to make a serious statement following his Olympics benching). Brown’s absence also benefits Payton Pritchard, allowing his impressive form to continue against the Dubs. Tonight’s game centers more on Tatum than Brown due to the Olympic controversy, so grabbing a front-row seat might be just right for the Finals MVP.