Must Cs: Jaylen Brown puts Jalen Smith on a poster

The Boston Celtics are heading into the final stages of their Emirates NBA Cup game against the Chicago Bulls, and as they try to secure a narrow lead – and hopefully increase their points differential in the tournament in the process – Jaylen Brown is having a crack at the Bostonians Offense started with an absolutely ridiculous drive and slam. Rest in peace, Jalen Smith – we barely knew you.

In keeping with Aron Baynes, Smith deserves credit for challenging this. Brown was going full throttle here, and I don’t think anyone would have blamed him for making a business decision and not getting in the way. Rim protectors are like quarterbacks – shamelessness and a short memory are essential to being good at the job.

That means… man, what a dunk. Although his game has long since evolved beyond mere athleticism, Brown remains one of the league’s most exciting vertical talents. There’s just nothing like watching him attack the basket, and this play gives you the total package – a long run and a willing sacrifice. Throw it away, big guy.

The Celtics’ lead as of this writing is eight points, 130-122, with just under two minutes to play as they hope to improve their tournament position by increasing the point differential. Their offense was up to the task tonight, but they struggled to slow Chicago’s scoring attack again. Brown has 20 points, including four three-pointers, and Jayson Tatum leads the Celtics with 35 points so far tonight.