The Celtics might be the bookies’ favorite to win the NBA championship, but Jayson Tatum has been in the crosshairs of media and pundits alike for his reduced output in the playoffs. Statistically, Tatum fell off from his regular season performance in the postseason so far.
After winning game 3 against the Cavs, Jayson Tatum opened up about the ongoing criticism. In the post-game press conference, Tatum responded by saying, “When they are fair, and they take emotion out of it — whatever way they are leaning towards and they are fair — I respect it.”
Tatum continued, “I understand what the media has brought to our game — more eyes, more attention, and how everybody has benefitted from that — so I wouldn’t say I’d take [criticism] as disrespect.”
Tatum not only responded to his critics on the mic but also with his game 3 performance. He led the scoring for the Cs with his game-high 33 points on the night. His 11-23 shooting from the field, 13 rebounds and 6 assists capped off a fantastic performance about which his HC, Joe Mazzulla, had something to say about after the game.
Joe Mazzulla Lauds “Underappreciated” Jayson Tatum After Game 3
After Tatum recorded his best game in the post-season, Mazzulla touched on the criticism faced by the 26-year-old.
During the post-game press conference, Mazzulla said, “He’s a really great player that gets taken advantage of because he’s been really good for a long time.” The 35-year-old wrapped up his statement with an “Underappreciated” remark about the forward.
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Jayson Tatum, with his game 3 performance, not only silenced his critics but also made his way into NBA playoffs history, cementing his spot alongside two Celtics greats. Larry Bird and John Havlicek are the two other players on the list who have recorded 25+ 30-point playoff games for the Cs.
The Celtics will go again on Monday against the Cavs, hoping to extend their series lead to 3-1.
Also Read: “Didn’t Get Rewarded Like It”- Jayson Tatum Dismisses Celtics’ ‘Super Team’ Tag After Loss to Cavs
