USA Today via Reuters
Jan 30, 2021; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) works on Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) during the second quarter at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Jan 30, 2021; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) works on Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) during the second quarter at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
After losing two back-to-back games for the first time this season, LeBron James and the LA Lakers quickly snapped out of their losing streak. In a closely fought contest vs the Celtics, the purple and gold came out victorious by a single point.
While the Lakers left the TD Garden with a victory, Celtics’ Jayson Tatum put on a show. He scored 30 points, but his performance wasn’t enough against their long-time rivals. Following this defeat, Boston has lost five out of their last seven games.
After this close defeat, Tatum spoke about his thoughts on competing against LeBron James.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
“You can’t take it for granted. It’s something I always look forward to and live for, competing against him.”
Jayson Tatum on competing against LeBron James and having a positive relationship with him: "You can't take it for granted. It's something I always look forward to and live for, competing against him."
— Jared Weiss (@JaredWeissNBA) January 31, 2021
Along with JT, Jaylen Brown added 28 points to the stat sheet as well. However, because of an unfortunate injury, the Celtics played most of the last quarter without Marcus Smart. While Smart’s contribution isn’t always reflected on the scoreboard, he is a crucial defensive part of the team.
The Celtics are one of the favorites to win the East this season, but can they snap out of their recent poor form? We will find out in the upcoming games.
LeBron James vs Jayson Tatum – A potential 2021 NBA Finals matchup?
USA Today via Reuters
Jan 30, 2021; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) shares a laugh with Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) as they wait to check in at the scorers table during the first quarter at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Before LBJ joined the Lakers and moved to the West, Tatum and LeBron produced a thrilling contest in the 2018 NBA playoffs. Although LeBron’s Cavs advanced to the Finals, it was a sensational series.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Fast forward to 2021, if the Lakers and the Celtics meet in the finals, it’ll reignite the rivalry between LeBron and Tatum. However, as of now, Boston is struggling to find their groove. Early on this season, they faced numerous injury troubles, which ultimately became a thorn in their path to a great start.
On the other hand, LeBron James’ Lakers are enjoying a good start to the season. They are now 15-6 this season and just one game behind the top seed in the Western Conference.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
ALSO READ | LeBron James Rookie Year: Accolades, Performances, Contract Details, and More
Do you believe that the epic rivalry between the Celtics and the Lakers will continue in the NBA Finals? Let us know your views in the comments section below.
