Overview

• Returning as a full participant after offseason meniscus surgery, Brown has become the vocal leader in camp and earned praise from coach Joe Mazzulla for his effort and defense.
• Boston’s roster has turned over with Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford, Jrue Holiday, and Luke Kornet gone, and Jayson Tatum sidelined with an Achilles injury.
• Practices have emphasized pace, aggressive defense, and sharper reads on screens as players work to develop chemistry and offensive timing.
• Brown’s leadership has extended off the court with team-bonding efforts, and newcomer Josh Minott said following his lead has been easy.
• The Celtics open the preseason Wednesday in Memphis, with Brown pushing to set the tone from the first game as sportsbooks project roughly a .500 season.