After Friday’s win over the Pacers, the Celtics have a commanding 3-0 series lead and seem poised to advance to the Eastern Conference semifinals. As the Celtics aim for an NBA championship, the possibilities of the upcoming offseason loom large.
Youngster Jayson Tatum, in his second season with the Celtics, has been mentioned as a potential centerpiece for an Anthony Davis trade this summer. It’s obvious why the Pelicans would want an athletic 21-year-old who set career-bests in PPG (15.7), RPG (6.0), APG, (2.1) and MPG (31.1).
Sopan Deb of the New York Times writes that Tatum does not take the rumors personally and actually views them as a positive based on his abilities.
“Trade rumors don’t bother me,” Tatum said.“They’re talking about trading me for guys like Anthony Davis. So, I mean, I must be doing something pretty well.”
Tatum will not need to worry about being traded for the next few months, at least. After all, the Pelicans named David Griffin the new executive vice president of basketball operations and it remains to be seen how he handles Davis’ likely departure. If and when that time comes, Tatum said he will suit up for whichever team’s roster he’s on.
“I love the game of basketball,” Tatum said. “Being traded is part of the game. I’ll play for whomever. It’s something I can’t control.”
Good for you, Jayson. I hope your attitude catches on among other players.
Lmao you’re funny, you can’t possibly compare this to other players/trades if literally any other player was in the same situation they’d say the same thing. Not everyday is a player rumored to be the centerpiece for one of the best players.
The Lakers squad reacted by losing their way out of the playoffs.
lakers threatening to void lonzo’s contract for surgery from a non-team physician was FF
Wait, what? A healthy, positive attitude?? Can this guy last in the NBA with thinking like that?
Love to see Tatum in New Orleans with Pelicans. Great attitude – refreshing. A nice change from the “all about me” egomaniacal nonsense from players such as Lebron and AD.
As much as I want Davis in Boston (admittedly I’m a Celtics fan) I really would hate to see Tatum go in that deal. I think he has the chance to be a really special player – both on the court and just as an all around great guy. If there was a way to somehow get AD while keeping Tatum I think the Celtics would immediately become the best team in the NBA by far (assuming Irving also stays). But I also don’t see the Pelicans trading Davis to the C’s without acquiring Tatum. Wherever he ends up I think he’s going to be a special player.
Don’t trade him!!! Remember James Harden? Think about it!
Harden is/was on a much higher trajectory than Tatum. He is focussed & innovative. Compare their second-year stats.
Tatum plays like he talks, without peaks & valleys, just level sameness. That’s not a bad thing, but it may not be enough to drive a title.
Agreed. Floor Tobias Harris, ceiling Paul Pierce.
Paul Pierce is an all time great hof’er. I wouldn’t trade him for AD, I would move heaven and earth to PAIR them.
Hardens year 2 stats were completely underwhelming. Per 36, 16 ppg, 16 PER. Tatums numbers are better.
I really don’t see the hype on this guy. He’s good, he’s young so he can and should only get better but I really don’t think he’s as great as people act. I am a fan of the guy but I really am curious why the over hype.
Did he really just say whomever
Refreshing to see this kind of attitude as opposed to the guy they’re talking about trading for. I hope they keep him and figure something else out