In the Celtics’ close 122-119 victory over the Bucks at TD Garden, Jayson Tatum’s first-half performance was electrifying, racking up 23 points and sinking four of his first five 3-pointers, contributing to a significant lead for Boston. However, as the game progressed, the Bucks mounted a comeback, narrowing the Celtics’ lead to just 3 points in the final moments.
During the second half, particularly in the third quarter, Tatum went scoreless for nearly 22 minutes, opting not to attempt a single shot until late in the game. Bucks coach Doc Rivers attributed this to the Bucks’ defensive strategy, particularly their use of zone defense, which limited Tatum’s shooting opportunities. Tatum himself explained that he aimed to involve his teammates more in the offense during this period, adjusting his role to fit the flow of the game.
Former Celtic Paul Pierce commended Tatum’s willingness to trust his teammates and not feel pressured to carry the scoring burden for the team, especially given the Celtics’ offensive efficiency this season. Despite averaging slightly fewer points per game compared to last season, Tatum’s confidence in his teammates and their collective offensive prowess has allowed him to adapt his game.
Tatum emphasized that while he appreciates having capable teammates, he doesn’t intend to make a habit of going extended periods without shooting. His final tally of 31 points, including crucial free throws in the closing minutes, demonstrated his ability to step up when needed, ultimately securing the win for the Celtics. Rivers acknowledged Tatum’s reliability as a scorer, particularly in isolation situations, highlighting his importance to the team’s success.