Jayson Tatum continues to be dismissed from serious MVP consideration, but he is carrying himself like a true superstar. The three-time All-NBA First-team selection is embracing any challenge that stands in his way, as illustrated by the mindset he exemplified in the Boston Celtics' 118-115 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday night.
The defending NBA champions boast a number of offensive weapons, so Tatum is not typically concerned about getting buckets. The points come eventually. Though, he is taking it upon himself to be particularly proactive on defense. Tatum had his eyes on Minnesota's top dog.
“{Head coach} Joe Mazzulla said Jayson Tatum said he wanted to guard Anthony Edwards tonight,” The Athletic's Jay King posted on X after the game. Possessing such ambition a year after winning title No. 1 bodes well for both him and the Celtics.
Tatum, who unleashed 33 points, nine assists, eight rebounds and three steals against the Timberwolves, passed the Edwards assignment with flying colors. Ant-Man scored only 15 points on 5-of-16 shooting in defeat, marking the fourth consecutive game that he was held below 25 points. The Celtics employed plenty of double-team sets on the 23-year-old, but Tatum handled his self-imposed responsibility to full effect.
