As the Celtics and Mavericks gear up for Game 2, Jason Kidd is choosing to employ psychological tactics.
The NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks are already filled with drama, but it seems the NBA marketing team wanted to add another layer of intrigue. There’s been talk of a rivalry between Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown in the Celtics locker room, suggesting a possible dislike between them, each thinking they’re the team’s best player.
In a scheduled media appearance before Game 2, Kidd made a point of calling Jaylen Brown the Celtics’ best player not once, but twice. This move came after a question about the challenge of facing Brown defensively, with Kidd praising Brown’s all-around game and how he impacts both ends of the floor.
In the past, visiting coaches at the old Boston Garden would complain about the conditions or alleged tricks by the Celtics’ management. Now, with the prevalence of social media, Kidd’s comment about Brown can be seen as an attempt to stir the pot and influence the narrative surrounding the series.
While it’s unclear if Kidd had strategic intentions with his remark, his long history in the NBA and coaching suggests he’s aware of how such statements can impact a series.
Brown, for his part, chose not to engage with Kidd’s comments, simply stating that basketball is a team game and everyone has their opinions.
