The Boston Celtics hold the best record in the NBA. They’re also at the top of the Eastern Conference with significant breathing room. Their top-seven rotation has been exceptional all season. However, Jayson Tatum has continued to show the world why he’s among the most talented players in the NBA.
Yet, with so much talent around him, Tatum’s performances have been more nuanced. Rather than dominating in the scoring column, he’s proving he’s an elite passer, rebounder, defender and playmaker. Still, in order for his teammates to excel, Tatum, like everyone else on the roster, has made some sacrifices. During a recent interview with The Athletic’s Jared Weiss, the St. Louis native explained how he accepted a more versatile role this season.
“It’s just about trusting that it’s going to come back,” Tatum said. “I’m going to get my shots, get my points. It’s just about trusting the process. It’s tough when you’re younger, you just want everything to happen so fast and how you want it to happen, but it don’t work like that.”
Despite his counting stats all taking a slight dip, Tatum is still within touching distance of MVP voting. He’s still seen as an All-NBA caliber forward. And he has a legitimate chance to finally add a championship ring to his resume.
Celtics Lab 242: Inside the minds of MVP voters with ESPN's Tim Bontemps https://t.co/L8fKFNX5M0 pic.twitter.com/5cRNjgQP1n
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) February 21, 2024
Still, if Tatum can help lead Boston to their first championship in 16 years, all the sacrifice, and potentially being overlooked for an MVP award, would be worth it.
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