Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown played crucial roles in the Boston Celtics’ success in the last NBA season. However, both the star players were unlucky during the 2024 Paris Olympics. Despite delivering outstanding performances in the previous NBA season, Celtics guard Brown was not chosen for the Team USA roster.
On the other hand, Tatum was selected for the roster but received limited playing time. The 26-year-old was benched in the two games against Serbia in the 2024 Olympics. Former NBA player Matt Barnes discussed this issue during a recent interview with DJ Siddiqi of Clutchpoints.
“I like Boston. I like Boston because [Kristaps] Porzingis had a whole offseason to get healthy and Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown got did dirty. Tatum not playing in the Olympics was horrible and there’s no excuse for it. And Jaylen Brown not even getting an opportunity in the Olympics after the season he had, winning Finals MVP was very disrespectful.” Barnes said.
Tatum and Brown gave their best efforts, especially in the NBA playoffs of last season. Thanks to their combined stellar performances, the Celtics clinched the championship after defeating the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA finals. Due to his remarkable performances, Brown was named the MVP of both the Conference and the NBA finals.
Barnes Predicts Tatum And Brown Will Lead Celtics To Another Championship
Even though Celtics star Tatum won the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, his contribution was minimal. Team USA coach Steve Kerr faced strong criticism from fans, players, and analysts for being biased towards Tatum. However, as the new NBA preseason started, Barnes believed that both Tatum and Brown would dominate due to the Olympics drama.
“So I know those two are going to come out with a chip on their shoulder. I like them in the East — although there’s a couple of other teams. I like Philly, I think Milwaukee’s window is closing with their team as great as Giannis [Antetokounmpo] still is.” Barnes said.
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The Celtics have emerged victorious in both the first and second preseason games against the Denver Nuggets. The team’s impressive performance has generated excitement among fans, and anticipation is building for the upcoming preseason game against the Philadelphia 76ers.
