Celtics’ Malcolm Brogdon named Sixth Man of the Year

Malcolm Brogdon Wins The 2022-2023 NBA Kia Sixth Man of the Year Award! #KiaSixth

The NBA announced on Thursday that Boston Celtics guard Malcolm Brogdon as the 2022-23 Sixth Man of the Year. Brogdon, who previously won the league’s Rookie of the Year award in 2017, has proven to be a valuable asset for Boston since being acquired in a trade with the Indiana Pacers last summer.

The trade, which sent Aaron Nesmith, Daniel Theis and a 2023 first-round pick to the Pacers in exchange for Brogdon, was seen as a move to address the Celtics’ need for a reliable backup player who could make an impact off the bench.

Brogdon has exceeded expectations, averaging 14.9 points and 3.7 assists per game. He is also shooting an impressive 44.4 percent from 3-point range.

Brogdon’s impact on the Celtics goes beyond his scoring ability. He has brought poise and pace to the game, giving the team a much-needed boost in ball-handling and playmaking. His contributions have been crucial in key moments. The 30-year-old has quickly become a trusted player for the Celtics.

It has been nearly four decades since a Celtics player earned the Sixth Man of the Year honor. Brogdon joins the ranks of Celtics legends such as John Havlicek, Kevin McHale and Bill Walton, who have previously won the award.

In an interview before the postseason started, Brogdon reflected on his first season in Boston and his role in the team’s playoff quest. The 30-year-old acknowledged that while winning individual awards is important, his main focus is helping the team succeed and become a true title contender.

“I heard that term a lot. I’ve continued to hear it,” said Brogdon, referring to the notion that he was the missing piece for the Celtics. “There’s definitely motivation in it because you want to be the missing piece. You want to be the piece that helps them get over the hump. But there’s also pressure associated with it, that comes with it. Which is expected but I embrace it.”

As the Celtics gear up for the playoffs, Brogdon’s role as the team’s Sixth Man of the Year will be crucial in pursuing a championship. Boston is currently leading 2-0 ahead of the Atlanta Hawks.