Feels like it was just yesterday the report regarding Anthony Davis Sr. not wanting his son to play for the Boston Celtics surfaced. It’s nearly been a month since that report and even longer since the NBA’s rumor mill reached new heights thanks to Davis’ request for a trade from the New Orleans Pelicans.
The drama hasn’t stopped though, at least, not completely. On the Celtics’ end of things, there’s still concern about what happens if Boston acquires Davis and who it will take to get him in green. Specifically, will Danny Ainge have to trade young superstar Jayson Tatum?
Some reports have indicated that to be the case, including the one on Monday from The Athletic’s Shams Charania.
Around the NBA’s Feb. 7th trade deadline, Boston made their intentions clear to the New Orleans Pelicans surrounding their pursuit of All-NBA star Anthony Davis after the season, league sources told The Athletic: Everyone can be available.
Charania also reports he spoke with Tatum on the matter to some level. Tatum himself indicated he wasn’t bothered by the trade talks in his media availability at NBA All-Star Weekend. Boston’s young superstar echoed something similar to Charania.
I’ll play basketball anywhere. I’ll play for whoever wants me. That’s my job. I know I can’t control any of that stuff, so I’m not going to lose sleep over it. Trade talk doesn’t bother me.
Tatum added:
I’ll play for anyone.
Tatum also told ESPN at NBA All-Star weekend he wants to stay in Boston.
I love being on the Celtics. I want to play there my whole career.
So, while the message to Charania may seem concerning, it appears Tatum is only doing everything he can to protect himself and express he will do everything he can on the court, no matter who he plays for.
