Jayson Tatum, the star player of the Boston Celtics, has been a crucial player behind the team’s success in the recent NBA season. The 26-year-old star delivered several dominating performances that led his team to clinch their franchise’s 18th championship. As the team prepares for another title run in the next season, Tatum, who recently made a bold prediction, is feeling more confident about himself.
During a recent appearance on The Tonight Show, the Celtics star was asked about his pick for the 2024-25 NBA season MVP. Instead of mentioning another player’s name, Tatum humorously asked if he could pick himself as the next year’s MVP. While Tatum’s bold statement has been praised by many fans, it has also caught the attention of several NBA analysts.
In a recent episode of ESPN’s NBA Today show, former NBA player Kendrick Perkins addressed Tatum’s statement and called the Celtics star selfish. However, Perkins also mentioned that it is okay for a player to have goals of clinching the MVP honor.
“I’m not being negative or anything. Here’s the thing: I get that basketball is a team sport, right? And I get championships have helped define a lot of guys’ legacy. Hell, I’m still called an NBA champion to this day. But if one individual wants to hit and accomplish individual accolades, I’m all for it. “So, I have no problem with a player being somewhat selfish and wanting to accomplish things on an individual basis,” Perkins said.
According to StatMuse, Tatum averaged 26.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.9 assists in 74 games during the 2023-24 season. He was chosen to participate in his fifth All-Star game.
Tatum Reveals Ambition to Capture the MVP Award
Tatum showcased exceptional skills on the court during the 2024 NBA playoffs. With support from Jaylen Brown, the five-time NBA All-Star defeated tough competition in the league. According to StatMuse, Tatum averaged 25.0 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 6.3 assists in 19 games during the 2024 playoffs. In a February interview, the Celtics star emphasized the importance of individual awards, such as the MVP.
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“Individual awards are important…Everybody wants to win a championship, but you want to be rewarded for the work that you put in, for the things that you go out there and do on the court…As a competitor, as a player, you grew up watching your favorite players winning MVP and first-team All-NBA and all that.” Tatum said.
Tatum had a tough time during his stint with the Team USA roster at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Although the American men’s basketball team won the Gold medal, Tatum’s contribution to the success was minimal as he spent most of the time on the bench or didn’t perform well in the tournament. However, the upcoming NBA season is on the horizon, and fans are eager to see if Tatum can fulfill his goal of winning the next MVP award.
“So, I have no problem with a player being somewhat selfish wanting to accomplish things on an individual basis.”
