In a startling upset, the Boston Celtics fell to the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 2, serving as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of the NBA playoffs. Despite boasting a talented roster and entering the postseason as the top seed in the Eastern Conference with the league’s best record, the Celtics were soundly defeated 118-84 by the Cavs last Thursday.
The defeat underscored the frustrating inconsistency that has plagued Jayson Tatum, the former Duke Blue Devils standout, throughout the playoffs. While Tatum managed to tally 25 points in Game 2, his performance was marred by a lackluster shooting display, as he missed 10 of his 17 attempts from the field and made minimal impact in the crucial fourth quarter.
During a recent segment on ESPN’s Get Up, NBA expert Zach Lowe emphasized the Celtics’ urgent need for Tatum to assert himself more aggressively on the court. Tatum’s struggles have been evident throughout the series against the Cavaliers, with his shooting efficiency dipping below 50 percent in every game thus far.
"Derrick White's been the best player on the Boston Celtics in the playoffs and at some point that's gonna have to become Jayson Tatum if they're gonna get where they want to go."
👀 @ZachLowe_NBA pic.twitter.com/tXv234ids4
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) May 10, 2024
In Game 1, Tatum mustered just 18 points on 7-of-19 shooting, reflecting an overall field goal percentage of 38.9 percent for the series.
As the Celtics gear up for Game 3, they are banking on Tatum rediscovering his form to lead them to victory and regain control of the series. With the Cavaliers gaining momentum, Boston’s hopes hinge on Tatum breaking free from his slump and delivering a performance worthy of his talent.
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