WATCH: Celtics star Jayson Tatum drops 54 points in victory over Nets
Celtics star forward Jayson Tatum saw Kevin Durant on the other side of the court and welcomed the challenge. The former Duke star dropped 54 points on Durant’s Brooklyn Nets, leading Boston to a 126-120 victory over their rivals.
Tatum had Boston up in arms all afternoon, but it was never louder than when the former Duke star hit a mid-range show to get over the 50-point benchmark.
“It’s fun the way we playing. Obviously we’ve been on a good stretch. Everybody’s been healthy. We just having fun competing,” stated Tatum after the game. “It wasn’t always pretty today, but everybody contributed and we just figured it out. Those are the best wins. When you just figure it out. Find a way to win, whatever it takes. That’s what we did.”
Moreover, the Celtics didn’t have the best start to the season, but Tatum has led them on a blazing month. In their last ten games, Boston has won 8 of them. Additionally, the former Duke star has been one of the hottest players in the league, leading the charge on a playoff run.
Currently, the Celtics sit at 39-27 — a far cry from the way they began the season. They’re making a beeline for the top of the Eastern Conference, as they’re hitting their stride at the perfect time.
After dropping 54-points, Tatum was taking in the atmosphere, speaking about reaching his dreams on the court every night.
“This is what I dreamed about as a kid,” stated Tatum. “Worked my whole life to get to. Obviously I got a long way to go. A long way from what I’m trying to accomplish. Staying in the moment, and just enjoying it. Having fun. Doing what I love everyday. I’m blessed.”
Finally, the Celtics star believes Boston can go as far as their defense will take them. Although they gave up 120 points to the Nets, Tatum was satisfied with his team’s victory.
“It starts on the defensive end,” stated Tatum. “We gave up 120 points today, but that’s probably the most talented offensive team in the league. But that’s what we hang our hat on — defense. If we want to be successful, that’s where it’s going to start.”
Jayson Tatum has evolved into the leader the Celtics needed at the perfect time. Boston is going to be a team to watch over the remainder of the NBA season.