Celtics star Jayson Tatum has emerged as one of the best young players in the NBA. Last season, through 64 games, he averaged 26.4 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 4.3 assists on 45% shooting. He turned 23 in March.
While nobody is sure how high the ceiling goes for Tatum, this summer has certainly been kind to him, as recent videos and photos show him looking quite swole.
Jayson Tatum 💪 pic.twitter.com/iI20AdNHBl
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) August 31, 2021
Tatum has obviously been hard at work this summer, working out to improve his game and develop his body. In a chat with the media, he explained part of the source behind his new body.
“It’s part of me getting older; my body is just starting to change, as well as putting the work in.”
Of course, getting his body in shape is just part of the equation.
What really matters is what he is able to add to his arsenal on the basketball court. Tatum is already a pretty well-rounded player, but there are several areas he could improve.
Apparently, he is listening to the fans on this topic, who have been clamoring for him to start taking the ball inside.
“I know people want to see me go to the basket more. I like the step-back jumper. It’s compromise. I’ll do what the people want.”
Jayson Tatum on offseason bulk: “it’s part of me getting older; my body is just starting to change, as well as putting the work in.”
More Tatum: “I know people want to see me go to the basket more. I like the step-back jumper. It’s compromise. I’ll do what the people want.” pic.twitter.com/5n0yMdpTHx
— Chris Forsberg (@ChrisForsberg_) September 11, 2021
Last season, Tatum was the subject of doubt and criticism after his Celtics got bounced early on in the NBA playoffs. Is he really a franchise-level player? Is he capable of leading Boston to a title?
Whatever the haters have to say, he’s proud of where he stands and all that he has already accomplished.
“Lol everyone always has an opinion on what your doing/ should be doing… positive comments or negative ones… I ask myself all the time would 13 year old me be proud of who I am today… sometimes puts things in perspective of what really matters.”
The Celtics didn’t do much to change their roster this summer, but it doesn’t mean you should count them out.
So long as they have Tatum, they have a chance to compete at the highest level.
