Whether we like it or not, the arrival of Luka Doncic in Los Angeles is a major topic of discussion. Even now. When the trade went through, it immediately positioned the Purple & Gold as one of the most threatening teams in the Western Conference. Many stood astonished, but Jayson Tatum … well.

Tatum, who grew up idolizing Kobe Bryant, was expected to have something to say about Doncic stepping onto that same iconic stage. Right? Maybe some excitement about seeing another generational talent in a Lakers jersey? Or a reflection of how kids today will grow up watching Doncic the way he once watched Kobe?

Instead, he shut it down with one brutally cold response: “A lot of kids watch the Celtics play… I’m not a little kid anymore, so I don’t really watch the Lakers play. I’m a big Celtics fan.”

Ouch!

And just like that, he made his stance clear—Doncic’s trade wasn’t even a blip on his radar. No acknowledgment of the moment, no admiration for Doncic’s talent, nothing. Just a straight-up reminder that he’s all about Boston. And whatever’s happening in L.A.? That’s got nothing to do with him.

The reaction Tatum displayed was a mix of things beyond his admiration for Doncic. One of the all-time greatest feuds in sports history played between Celtics and Lakers formed the basis for this moment. Once Doncic touched down in L.A. the fans celebrated more than his arrival since they saw his appearance as a victory for legendary Lakers history itself.

Tatum remained entirely uninterested in supporting the Slovenian superstar, perhaps because overwhelming Boston loyalty prevented him from showing any love toward the Lakers franchise. If that’s the case, then what would the next step naturally be?

Jayson Tatum Just Made the Lakers-Celtics Rivalry Personal

The rivalry between Boston and L.A. is one of the most legendary battles in sports. Magic vs. Bird. Kobe vs. Pierce. And now? We might be looking at Tatum vs. Doncic as the next great chapter.

For decades, this matchup has been the gold standard of basketball rivalries. The Lakers have 17 championships just behind the Celtics sitting at 18 championships, and every time they meet, history feels like it’s being written. From the brutal, high-stakes battles of the ‘80s to the unforgettable 2010 Finals rematch, this rivalry has never lost its fire.

Now, Doncic in L.A. just took it up another level. The Lakers are suddenly a serious threat in the West, while Boston remains dominant in the East with Tatum leading the charge. If both teams stay on this trajectory, an NBA Finals showdown is absolutely in play. And after Tatum’s latest comments? You better believe Lakers fans would love nothing more than to see their new superstar get the last laugh.

But right now, JT isn’t paying attention. While the rest of the league is buzzing over Doncic’s move, he’s locked in on bringing another championship to Boston. That’s the only thing on his mind. Imagine if the Celtics and Lakers end up meeting on the biggest stage.

Something tells me Tatum won’t be ignoring L.A. then.