Former NBA defensive specialist Tony Allen questioned whether Jaylen Brown belongs among the league’s top defenders after Brandon Jennings mentioned the Boston Celtics star during a discussion about defensive players.
Allen, who earned six NBA All-Defensive Team selections during his career, named several current players he considers among the league’s best on that end of the floor.
“You could count on your hand who the defenders are in the league now. The Thompson twins, Caruso, Wallace, Dort, McDaniels,” Allen said.
Jennings then brought up Brown, prompting an immediate reaction from Allen.
“Jaylen Brown,” Jennings said.
“Jaylen who?” Allen responded.
“Jaylen Brown,” Jennings repeated.
“What Jaylen Brown,” Allen asked.
“You said the defenders,” Jennings replied.
“Jaylen Brown?” Allen questioned again.
Jennings attempted to clarify which player he was referring to, mentioning Brown’s Finals MVP award.
“From Philly. He got finals MVP,” Jennings said.
Allen then questioned Brown’s defensive credentials, particularly whether he had ever received All-Defensive Team recognition.
“Have he ever been first team or anything? I might be wrong. I never scouted him like this,” Allen said.
Another participant pointed out that Brown has never been selected to an NBA All-Defensive Team.
“He has zero all defensive,” OTM said.
“Man, we got out the mud,” Allen responded.
Brown won Finals MVP in 2024 and has been recognized for his two-way contributions throughout his career.
