• Jaylen Brown says he deserved the NBA Player of the Month award over Jalen Brunson.
  • Brown led the league in scoring in December and voiced his frustration after the announcement.
  • The Celtics guard delivered a blunt reaction: “Neither one of them had a better month than I had.”

Jaylen Brown speaks out after award goes to Jalen Brunson

Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown didn’t hide his disappointment after the NBA named New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson the league’s Player of the Month for December. Brown, who finished December as the NBA’s leading scorer, told reporters he believed he was the more deserving candidate.

Brown’s blunt response

Offering a direct assessment, Brown said: “Neither one of them had a better month than I had.” He pointed to his scoring output and overall impact for the Celtics during December as reasons he thought the honor should have gone to him.

Why the debate matters

Player of the Month honors can influence narratives around MVP races, contract conversations and media attention. Brown’s comment spotlights the tight competition at the wing positions this season and underscores the stakes for star players in high-profile markets.

Stats and context

Brown led the league in scoring during December, producing steady offensive output for the Celtics and helping Boston maintain its standing in the Eastern Conference. Brunson, meanwhile, delivered strong scoring and playmaking for the Knicks, earning the monthly award from the NBA.

While awards are subjective and voters weigh different factors — efficiency, team results and narrative — Brown’s public reaction adds a local, human element to the conversation in Boston and around the league.

Reactions and next steps

Brown’s comments drew attention on social media and among Celtics fans, some of whom echoed his view that he had a superior December. The debate is likely to continue as both players push their teams through the January schedule and into the second half of the season.

Embedded posts

Relevant social posts related to the discussion:

Final note

Brown’s candid take on the Player of the Month decision keeps the spotlight on individual honors as the Celtics aim to translate regular-season momentum into a deep playoff run. Expect fans and analysts to track both Brown and Brunson closely as the season progresses.

Image Referance: https://www.boston.com/sports/boston-celtics/2026/01/03/celtics-jaylen-brown-jalen-brunson-player-of-the-month/