If the NBA were to adopt something like the Conn Smythe Trophy in hockey where the MVP of
the entire postseason is awarded, this would a three-man race. One of the top playoff
performers this postseason has been Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics. He’s averaging 28.3
points per game in the playoffs which makes him third in that category behind Luka Doncic and
Jimmy Butler. His defense has been stellar as well. Knowing when to attack on offense while
bringing that tenacity on the opposite side has helped spring Boston to the Eastern Conference
Finals, just 4 wins away from playing for the Larry O’ Brien trophy. It’s not about the number of
points scored with Tatum, it’s about when he is putting these types of games together. Doing
the most pivotal point of the season, coming off a game where he went 12 for 29 shooting the
ball and his team gave up a 14-point lead in the fourth, Tatum scored 46 points in an
elimination game for the Celtics last series against the then defending champion Milwaukee
Bucks’. Hitting difficult contested three-point shots, driving to the lane while absorbing contact
from defenders, blowing by slowing defenders to get to his spot, Tatum did it all when his team
needed it most. It’s been 11 years since the Celtics have made it to the NBA Finals and let the
stats show, Boston has done the necessary to be in this position. When you have the talent of a
top 5 player offensively, having these expectations are reasonable. Now when it’s time to add
the defensive prowess to Tatum’s impressive offensive skills and what do you have? Don’t think
about too long the answer is simple. You have a franchise cornerstone who is prime to write his
name in the history books. The formula to get there won’t be easy, but Tatum and the Celtics
have answered the call all postseason. Whenever his teammates need him to get a bucket, he
seems to be right on time. If the 5th year pro wants to be regarded as a top five player, Now is
his time to shine.