Jayson Tatum, alongside his Celtics team, has seen fewer nail-biting encounters this season, evident from their commanding 57-16 record. However, in the rare instances where they’ve faced tight spots, Tatum hasn’t emerged as the dependable clutch player many would expect.
In critical moments with the game on the line, Tatum’s performance has been disappointing. He has failed to convert all six buzzer-beater attempts within the final five seconds of games where the Celtics had a chance to equalize or take the lead this season.
Jayson Tatum in the clutch this season:
— 22-61 FGM (36.1 FG%)
— 6-18 3PM (33.3 3P%)
— 83 PTSIf you take away free throws, he has 50 PTS in the clutch this season on 61 shots. Really struggling to close games out for the Celtics. pic.twitter.com/RbDtYZkqek
— NBA World (@NBAW0RLD24) March 29, 2024
Moreover, in situations within the final 30 seconds of one-possession games, Tatum’s success rate is a dismal 1-for-9, ranking second to last among players with at least seven attempts.
Expanding the scope to the entire clutch period, defined by the NBA as the final five minutes of a game, Tatum’s shooting statistics are far from reassuring. He has managed to hit only 22 of his 61 field goal attempts and 6 of 18 three-pointers during such crunch moments.
Tatum’s struggles in late-game situations were highlighted yet again in a recent game against the Hawks. His missed shot at the end of regulation opened the door for the Hawks to secure victory in overtime, with Dejounte Murray leading the charge with a remarkable performance.
"I know I've missed a couple this year, so I was like, 'Damn, I gotta be due for one'"
Jayson Tatum gives his perspective on his final shot of regulation pic.twitter.com/AA0dSoZ478
— Celtics on NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSCeltics) March 29, 2024
Despite the evident struggles, Tatum remains unfazed, downplaying concerns about his clutch performance and expressing optimism that his luck will turn around sooner or later.
“I know I’ve missed a couple this year, so I was like, ‘Damn, I gotta be due for one,'” Tatum commented to reporters via NBC Sports Boston. “I’ve hit a bunch of them in my career so far, but it’s part of it — make or miss league. I really do enjoy being in those situations.”
For keen followers of the Celtics, Tatum’s difficulties in clutch moments aren’t novel. Over the past five seasons, he has only managed to shoot 36 percent from the field in the final five minutes of the fourth quarter or overtime with the scoring margin within five points.
Jayson Tatum in the clutch – last 3 seasons:
36.1% FG
19.7% 3PT pic.twitter.com/vzz7JHXgzs— StatMamba (@StatMamba) March 29, 2024
The upcoming postseason presents Tatum with an opportunity to silence his critics and demonstrate his ability to perform under pressure.
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