Celtics' Jaylen Brown Eager to Embrace 'Knicks Villain' Role

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Celtics forward Jaylen Brown has made it clear he is eager to embrace the role of 'Knicks villain' in upcoming games against New York. Brown has made several comments in recent months meant to inflame Knicks fans and stoke the rivalry between the two teams, despite lacking any true on-court villains in the matchup at the moment.

Why it matters

The Celtics-Knicks rivalry is one of the most storied in the NBA, and Brown's desire to become the new villain in that matchup could add some much-needed drama and intensity to the games. As the Knicks continue to rebuild, Brown's actions could help reignite the passion between the two fan bases.

The details

Brown has made multiple comments in the lead-up to Celtics-Knicks games, including claiming Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau revealed secrets to beating the Celtics after being fired by New York. He has also gone out of his way to needle Knicks fans and stoke the rivalry, despite the Knicks lacking a clear on-court villain at the moment with the absences of players like Trae Young and Jimmy Butler.

• In October, Brown claimed Thibodeau revealed Knicks secrets after being fired.
• In the lead-up to upcoming Celtics-Knicks games, Brown has continued making comments meant to inflame Knicks fans.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Celtics and Knicks are scheduled to face off in a highly anticipated matchup on April 15th, where Brown will have the opportunity to further cement his status as the new villain in the rivalry.