For the past few seasons, Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum has been widely regarded as one of the best young stars in the NBA. But the question was: Does he have it? You know, that seemingly mystical power that all legends have.
After several early exits in the NBA Playoffs, it has become apparent that Tatum has fully embraced his status as a franchise cornerstone. And on Monday, he propelled the Celtics to a stunning sweep of the Brooklyn Nets in the first round of the NBA Playoffs. After the win in Game 4, Tatum confidently confirmed what many are thinking of him (via Celtics reporter Brian Robb).
Jayson Tatum: "I do feel like I'm one of the best players…I'm not surprised how I played."
— Brian Robb (@BrianTRobb) April 26, 2022
If you asked him about that a few years ago, Tatum would've sounded less confident. But now, the Celtics All-Star knows his greatness and also when to show it.
Tatum, who scored 29 points in Game 4 against the misfiring Nets, also tipped his hat to Celtics coach Ime Udoka for a well-executed strategy the entire series. But the former Duke standout also couldn't help but throw some shade on the NBA.
Jayson Tatum on Ime Udoka: "It's a shame he's not a finalist for Coach of the Year"
— Brian Robb (@BrianTRobb) April 26, 2022
The 24-year-old Tatum fouled out with still almost three minutes left in the fourth quarter. But while some fans of the Celtics may have grown anxious, especially with the firepower of the Nets, Tatum said he wasn't worried at all about completing the victory, per the report of ESPN.
“Couldn't believe it at all, but I think that's what we're built for.”
Take a bow, king.
The Celtics will await the winner between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Chicago Bulls.
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