Game on. That’s not just a motto in Boston—it’s a mindset. The 18-time champs are locked in on banner No. 19, and their next hurdle is a gritty New York Knicks squad standing in their way in the Eastern Conference Semis. With Game 1 just around the corner, tensions are high and storylines are heating up.

But right on cue, Jaylen Brown stepped in to calm the storm. The Celtics star delivered a crucial injury update that will ease every Boston fan’s nerves: “Structurally, everything is fine.” And as he addressed the media ahead of Monday’s showdown, Brown didn’t just talk health—he sent a message to the Knicks.

Jaylen Brown issues strong messages for the New York Knicks before Monday’s Game 1

The Knicks seemingly have crucial keys like OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges to guard Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum. Moreover, they’ve been looking forward to this series for probably years. So, the reporters asked JB, “Does that motivate you when teams are making moves to align with you and to guard you and Jayson, and that matchup?”

“Yeah. I mean, those are two excellent, excellent defenders. Two hardworking guys. So we’ve got to be ready. But it’ll be fun,” Brown commented. New York isn’t bluffing—they’ve loaded up their defense with OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges. Anunoby’s putting up 1.5 steals and 0.9 blocks per game, as he once chased the DPOY buzz. Meanwhile, Bridges just held Cade Cunningham to 10-of-25 with key stops in Round 1. So yes, Boston’s stars better come prepared. However, Jaylen Brown’s confidence says they’re ready for anything and everything.

Now the reporters wanted to know how letting the big roam off Josh Hart helps boost the Celtics’ defense? Jaylen Brown explained, “Every game is going to be different. That’s kind of the approach we’ve had in the past. But you’ve got to be prepared for anything. I think our defensive versatility has been one of our strong suits. So maybe we start the game that way. Maybe we switch it up. But we’ll be ready for multiple things.”

In their 107-98 win over Orlando, JB & Co. mixed schemes, nailed all 12 free throws, and locked down the paint. That’s the kind of defensive versatility Jaylen Brown was talking about. And now, it’s coming to New York. “In the playoffs, we’ve seen guys get hot. We’ve seen guys play above their means in the series or shoot the ball incredibly well. You don’t want to be in a position where you’re now responding to that,” the 28-year-old guard further noted.

Game plan or not, the Boston Celtics know their rhythm. They prep for everything, then let grit, hustle, and identity take over. It’s not about overthinking. It’s about showing up and letting Cs basketball speak loudly. However, pressure’s on Joe Mazzulla as the 36-year-old head coach is aiming for his second chip this season.

Joe Mazzulla feels the pressure as the Celtics chase their 19th banner

Jaylen was asked why Joe Mazzulla keeps hammering the basics—defense, rebounding, ball security—no matter the opponent. With so many shifting matchups in the playoffs, why stick to the same core focus? The question digs into the mindset behind winning the long game. And yes, it’s about more than just stats.

“Those are, I think, the most important factors for us. We’re very talented, very skilled. We have a lot of shot makers; we’re going to score the ball,” Brown told the media. “Defensively, we have a lot of great defenders. Stuff that will get us in trouble is if we turn the ball over, we don’t rebound, and things like that. So, taking care of that gives us a higher percentage of winning games. We emphasize those things.”

Jaylen Brown is crystal clear: the Celtics’ success hinges on smart play and avoiding costly mistakes. With a roster full of shot makers and top-tier defenders, their goal is simple—score, defend, and stay disciplined. Turnovers and missed rebounds? That’s where the trouble starts. Taking care of those? That’s the ticket to more wins, and the ticket to keep Joe Mazzulla calm.

As the Celtics gear up for Round 2 Game 1, they’re more than ready to take on the Knicks. With Jaylen Brown’s confidence and their versatile defense, Joe Mazzulla’s Boston is primed for whatever comes their way. It’s about staying disciplined, avoiding mistakes, and playing Celtics basketball. The 19th banner is within reach, and they’ll fight for it with everything they’ve got.