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The coronavirus pandemic remains a persistent issue for the NBA. Celtics forward Jayson Tatum is the latest to feel the after-effects of the virus.
The All-Star swingman said the virus has impacted his breathing patterns, also stating he has been more fatigued than usual in some games, per Jared Weiss of The Athletic.
Jayson Tatum says COVID has messed with his breathing a bit and there have been some games where he has gotten fatigued quicker running up and down the floor.
— Jared Weiss (@JaredWeissNBA) February 16, 2021
Tatum continues to elevate his play in his fourth season with the Celtics.
The 22-year-old is averaging 25.6 points, 7.1 rebounds and a career-high 4.5 assists through his first 21 games. But he has really been in a funk as of late.
Tatum is averaging 20.4 points in his last five games. He still played close to 35 minutes in those contests, but shot just over 35 percent from the field on 18.2 attempts per game, including 34.8 percent from beyond the arc.
Is the fatigue leading to the inefficiency? Regardless, Tatum's statement speaks to the severity of COVID. The Celtics star had mild symptoms, yet the virus is still impacting his ability to play up to his full potential.
The NBA had hoped to be through the worst of the COVID issue, but the Spurs' most recent outbreak is a reminder there is a long way to go. The league must remain vigilant in protecting its players. As Tatum's testimony suggests, even mild symptoms can have an effect on player capabilities.
