Jayson Tatum has entered the 2024 NBA Finals with a dubious distinction: he is now the worst shooter in NBA Finals history by field goal percentage (35.4%). After a disappointing Game 2 performance, where he shot just 6-22 from the field, and a similarly poor 6-16 in Game 1, Tatum’s shooting woes have become a significant concern for the Boston Celtics.
1. Jayson Tatum – 35.4%, 56-158 FG, 8 Games
2. Patrick Ewing – 36.3%, 58-160 FG, 7 Games
3. JR Smith – 37.7%, 84-223 FG, 25 Games
4. Kevin Love – 38.6%, 78-202 FG, 19 Games
5. Sam Perkins – 39.0%, 62-159 FG, 17 Games
6. Jason Kidd – 39.2%, 93-237 FG, 16 Games
7. Richard Hamilton – 39.3%, 86-219, 12 Games
8. Kenyon Martin – 39.4%, 71-180, 10 Games
9. Dirk Nowitzki – 40.4%, 93-230, 12 Games
10. Mario Chalmers – 40.4%, 72-178, 23 Games
11. Allen Iverson – 40.7%, 66-162, 5 Games
12. Ron Harper – 41.0%, 66-161, 27 Games
13. Kobe Bryant – 41.2%, 333-808, 37 Games
14. Draymond Green – 41.4%, 132-319, 33 Games
15. Rajon Rondo – 41.7%, 83-199, 19 Games
This year’s Finals are not Tatum’s first encounter with shooting struggles on the biggest stage. During the 2022 NBA Finals, he also struggled mightily, shooting 36.6% from the field and 45.4% from beyond the arc. Fast forward to 2024, and Tatum’s shooting percentages have plummeted even further. In the first two games, he has managed a dismal 31.5% from the field and 28.5% from three-point range.
Tatum’s 35.4% shooting percentage is now the lowest among players with a significant number of field goal attempts in the NBA Finals. This puts him below notable names like Patrick Ewing, JR Smith, and Kevin Love, who also struggled with efficiency during their Finals appearances.
Despite Tatum’s scoring troubles, the Celtics have managed to secure a 2-0 lead against the Dallas Mavericks, thanks to contributions from other players. Jrue Holiday, Jaylen Brown, and Derrick White have stepped up to fill the scoring void left by Tatum’s inefficiency. However, for Boston to maintain their momentum and ultimately win the championship, Tatum will need to find his shooting touch.
His performance is a critical component of the Celtics’ success. While his defense and playmaking have been valuable, improving his shooting efficiency will be key in the remaining games of the series. Tatum’s ability to bounce back from this slump could be the deciding factor in the Celtics’ quest for their 18th NBA title.
Jayson Tatum Is Stepping Up In Other Ways
Jayson Tatum has had a tough time shooting this series, but he has been contributing significantly in other areas. Despite his struggles with his field goal percentage, which has dipped to 31.5%, Tatum is making an impact through his versatility and determination.
Averaging 17.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game, Tatum is proving that he is more than just a scorer. His playmaking abilities have shone through, facilitating for his teammates and creating opportunities on the offensive end.
Tatum’s assist numbers highlight his evolution as a playmaker. Averaging 8.5 assists, he is effectively orchestrating the offense, making smart decisions with the ball, and ensuring his teammates are involved. This development in his game is crucial for the Celtics, as it adds another dimension to their offense and makes them more unpredictable and challenging to defend.
However, for Tatum to solidify his status as the best player in the league and the undisputed leader of the Celtics, he will need to overcome his shooting woes. The title of the best player is within reach, but it requires a consistent and well-rounded performance. If Tatum can find his shooting touch while maintaining his high level of playmaking and rebounding, he could elevate his game and his team to new heights.
While Jayson Tatum’s shooting struggles have been evident in this series, his contributions in other areas have been invaluable. His averages demonstrate his versatility and commitment to winning. If he can continue to improve and find his shooting rhythm, the title of the best player in the league and the leader of the Celtics is up for grabs.
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