The Boston Celtics lost to the Golden State Warriors in the 2022 NBA Finals. Ime Udoka’s squad came up short, as Steve Kerr’s team leaned into their experience on the biggest stage. Of course, it didn’t help that Udoka had Boston playing drop defense against the best shooter the NBA has ever seen.
Considering that Boston has since won a championship of its own, you would think the Celtics have moved on from that tough six-game series. If you thought that, you would be mistaken. During a recent Twitch live stream, Brown admitted he’s still upset about losing to Curry and the Warriors in the Finals.
“Steph took one of my rings,” Brown said. “It’s all good. I got one. I’m still mad about that s–t, but it’s cool. One week, I didn’t leave my house… We should have won.”
Brown had a strong performance during those Finals games. He ended the series averaging 23.5 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.7 assists, shooting 49.3% from two-point range and 34% from deep. He’s also known to be a fierce competitor, which is why the loss still stings.
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As the Celtics are in the first year of a retooling phase, Brown will need to wait for a shot at a second championship ring. Boston may need another year before it’s ready to challenge at the top of the Eastern Conference.
Nevertheless, Brown is proving he’s a better player than he was in previous years. He’s dominating as the Celtics’ primary offensive option this season. It will be interesting to see how Joe Mazzulla balances the load once Jayson Tatum returns from injury.
The 2022 loss to the Warriors will probably stick with Brown for the rest of his life. Celtics fans will hope he continues using that loss as fuel to help raise more banners in the TD Garden. After all, with a healthy Brown and Tatum, the Celtics will be in the championship conversation for years to come.
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Featured image via Brian Fluharty/Imagn Images
