Malcolm Brogdon on playing in Boston: ‘Being a Celtic…

Malcolm Brogdon on playing in Boston: ‘Being a Celtic fits me perfectly’

Malcolm Brogdon didn’t mince words when asked about his fit with the Boston Celtics and his expectations for the team this spring. The 2017 Rookie of the Year made it clear that he views any future success as a collective effort, and he is ultimately most hungry to compete for a title.

Brogdon joined the Celtics this summer by way of trade following several disappointing seasons with the Indiana Pacers. When Boston begins its postseason campaign next week, the former Virginia Cavalier will play in his first playoff action since 2020.

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After Wednesday’s 97-93 Celtics win, Brogdon was asked if his experience with Boston matched his expectations before the season.

“This is exactly what I thought,” Brogdon said. “I thought I would be coming to a championship team. That’s what we have here.”

Malcolm Brogdon had one of his finest games as a Celtic as Boston defeated Toronto 97-93 at home. https://t.co/wkm1bXlPMj

— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) April 6, 2023

Brogdon has become a steadying force and an important veteran for the Celtics. But developing that role has been a bit of an adjustment.

“Coming off the bench can be a challenge sometimes, to be honest,” Brogdon said. “Having a career where you start every game…that’s where you gotta suck it up.”

Brogdon is averaging a career-low 25.9 points per game, and has yet to log a start this season. Still, he emphasized that the entire team is dedicated to a greater cause.”

“That’s what I think makes a great team,” Brogdon added. “Having guys that are able to do that. Guys that are able to sacrifice. Because it’s not me sacrificing every night. Every night, it’s a different guy.”

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Jaylen Brown spoke Wednesday about Brogdon’s impact on the team. Brogdon led all scorers with 29 points in a game where the Celtics were down three starters.

“It’s tough coming off the bench for sure,” Brown said. “It’s been a process for him. He’s accepted that role and been great. I think he should be one of the front-runners for Sixth Man of the Year.”

Brogdon himself brushed off any concerns or extra motivation tied to personal hardware. Instead, he suggested any individual accolades were steps toward the ultimate goal: an NBA title.

“That’s everything to me.” Brodgon said. “I want to win.”

Brogdon explained the last two seasons with the Pacers were difficult. The team missed the playoffs, and Brogdon struggled at times with injuries. Now with Boston, he has a chance to be himself.

“I’m a winner,” said Brogdon. “I feel like I’ve been known as a winner. I want to be known as a winner when I’m done playing in this league. And I want to win at the highest level, and that’s winning a championship.

“Being in Boston and being a Celtic fits me perfectly.” Brogdon added.

Jaylen Brown has won the 2023 Red Auerbach Award, an annual honor presented to the player who best embodies what it means to be a Boston Celtic. https://t.co/ELtLX1BrAE

— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) April 5, 2023