The Boston Celtics were aiming for the 50-win milestone after they managed to snap a two-game skid against the Suns on Saturday. With the Portland Trail Blazers as their opponent, it was almost certain that they would get that coveted win. And they did. The Celtics finished tonight with a dominant 121-99 score with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown taking their team to the victory.
Talking to the press post-game, the star franchise players opened up about their feelings. In the process, the pair also revealed some thoughts that keep their locker room energy up even on bad days.
Jayson Tatum is grateful to be part of the Boston franchise
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The 2023-24 season has never been short of drama for the NBA. From inconsistent performances to an important aspect, the locker room chemistry, teams this season have had major challenges to deal with. But Tatum is not one to overlook the value of trust and team chemistry. The 5x All-Star, though, keeps it realistic in the post-game presser and at the same time, subtly warns the rest of the league. “We’re not perfect, but we strive towards that. At this point in the season, to have 50 wins, we’re doing something right. The scary part is we can get better.”
"At this point in the season, to have 50 wins, we're doing something right. The scary part is we can get better"
Jaylen and Jayson on their appreciation for consistently playing on a winning team pic.twitter.com/ilbSGVSh0R
— Celtics on NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSCeltics) March 12, 2024
Tatum’s admission of having a great team was on full display tonight as well. Even with veteran guard Jrue Holiday and big man Kristaps Porzingis out, the Celtics rallied to keep the momentum. Payton Pritchard shined in his role as the starter in Holiday’s place. In his first start of the season and 10th of his career, Pritchard finished with 11 points, while leading in rebounds and assists with eight points.
More importantly, the team had ultimate understanding. For the first time in the franchise’s history, the Celtics have had three or fewer turnovers on 34 assists (credit: Boston Sports Info). Clearly, they are doing something right.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Jaylen Brown brings attention to a major component
Brown and Tatum have been with the Celtics for seven-plus years. They have had been them for the ups and downs, have grown as people and players, and now are frontrunners for a championship. But none of this would have been possible without the support of the whole team. Basketball is a team sport.
When there are misunderstandings or a lack of communication within the team, it affects the game. Badly. Jaylen Brown knows this all too well. This understanding was apparent in his answer to a reporter’s question of whether it was a speech he gave every year. “You see what’s goin’ on at different places in the league, team chemistry, locker room, teams are in losing environments. It hasn’t been us,” he said. “Every step of my career, it has been great teammates, great organization, build something special. That’s not something you want to take for granted.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
It definitely isn’t something to take for granted. Dynasties like the Lakers and Warriors can only relate too well to what Brown said. They have had it the worst. And we have all seen the results of that. So, what do you think of Jaylen’s speech? Are the Celtics on the right path to season-ending glory? Let us know what you think.
Read More: Jayson Tatum Favored Over Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as NBA Veteran Drops MVP Favorite