Celtics' Jaylen Brown Calls Out Thunder's Lu Dort for Excessive Physicality

Brown criticizes referees for not calling fouls on Dort's aggressive defensive tactics.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 5:21am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown has called out Oklahoma City Thunder guard Lu Dort for being overly physical on defense, claiming Dort gets away with too much contact that should be called as fouls. Brown provided video evidence of Dort hitting him in the head while contesting a shot, saying the referees did not call the foul. This is not the first time Dort has been criticized for his physical style of play, as he has racked up multiple flagrant fouls this season, particularly against Nuggets star Nikola Jokic.

Why it matters

Dort's aggressive defense has been a key part of the Thunder's identity, but it has also drawn the ire of opposing players and officials at times. As one of the league's premier two-way players, Brown's criticism of Dort's tactics could put more scrutiny on the referees to call fouls when Dort crosses the line, potentially impacting the Thunder's defensive approach moving forward.

The details

In a recent Twitch stream, Brown showed a clip of Dort hitting him in the head while contesting a shot, saying the referees did not call a foul. Brown expressed frustration, stating "Bro smacked me upside the head like I was one of his grandkids or something." This is not the first time Dort has been involved in controversial physical plays, as he has racked up multiple flagrant fouls this season, particularly against Nuggets star Nikola Jokic.

  • Dort has been caught up in many controversial calls throughout his career.
  • Dort committed multiple flagrant fouls against Nikola Jokic this season.

The players

Jaylen Brown

A Boston Celtics superstar and one of the league's premier two-way players.

Lu Dort

An Oklahoma City Thunder guard known for his aggressive defensive tactics, which have drawn criticism and flagrant fouls.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Dang. They weren't about to call this, too. Bro snapped me upside the head, I'm tight. Bro smacked me upside the head like I was one of his grandkids or something.”

— Jaylen Brown

What’s next

With Brown's criticism, Dort may face increased scrutiny from officials, which could impact the Thunder's defensive approach moving forward.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing debate around physical defense in the NBA, as players like Dort push the boundaries of what is considered acceptable contact. Brown's comments could lead to closer officiating of Dort's tactics, potentially forcing the Thunder to adjust their defensive strategy.