Jayson Tatum experienced one of the most successful summers for any NBA player. However, he faced setbacks throughout the season. Firstly, he was overlooked for the Final MVP trophy, which was awarded to his teammate Jaylen Brown, despite Tatum putting up impressive numbers in the finals. Additionally, when he was chosen to represent Team USA in the Olympics, he did not get enough playing time.
Recently, NBA skills coach Drew Hanlen discussed Jayson Tatum‘s goal. According to Hanlen, Tatum is not seeking revenge but has a different objective in mind. Hanlen revealed that Tatum aims to cement his name among the NBA’s all-time greats. He even mentioned comparing Tatum’s resume to NBA legends like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Stephen Curry. Jordan had not won any championships before the age of 27, while both James and Curry had one each.
Throughout his career, Tatum has achieved multiple All-Star appearances, All-NBA selections, and a championship ring. However, according to Hanlen, what sets him apart from NBA legends is his lack of MVP awards. Despite averaging great numbers, Tatum has never been in the running for the MVP race. Many analysts have even speculated about Tatum never winning an MVP in his career. The absence of MVP awards will undoubtedly have a significant impact on Tatum’s career.
I think a lot of people are like, ‘Oh, he’s out for revenge,’ I don’t think Jayson looks at it like that. He’s like, ‘Compare my resume at 27 to Michael Jordan, who never won one at 27. Compare it to LeBron, who had won one. Compare it to Steph, who had one.‘
Drew Hanlen told ESPN
As the next season approaches, Tatum will aim to make a significant impact. The Celtics star will soon turn 27 and is considered to be in his prime as a basketball player.
Jayson Tatum had no idea about getting benched during the Olympics
After a dominant NBA season, Jayson Tatum was selected to represent Team USA in the 2024 Paris Olympics. However, Tatum’s journey in the Olympics wasn’t as bright as it was expected by many fans. Out of the six Olympics games, Tatum played only in the four of them and was benched completely for two games.
USA head coach Steve Kerr received a lot of backlash from NBA legend and fans for benching Tatum. Later, Kerr even admitted his mistake in benching Tatum.
Recently, during the Celtics’ media day, ESPN’s Tim Bontemps asked Tatum about his learnings from the Olympics and further specified his question by asking about his benching for two games. Tatum responded positively to the situation, mentioning that he had no clue why he didn’t play against Serbia. Tatum elaborated on the experience and expressed his understanding and acceptance of the coach’s decision, focusing on moving forward and improving.
It was a unique circumstance, something I haven’t experienced before in my playing career. But I’m a believer that everything happens for a reason. I was coming off a championship, highest of highs, cover of 2K, a new contract, and that happened. Whatever the reason is, I haven’t figured out yet. But I am a believer that everything happens for a reason.
Jayson Tatum told the reporters
Jayson Tatum is initially asked what he learned from his Olympic experience.
“That’s a broad question. You want to be more specific?”
“You want to address that I didn’t play in two of those games? That’s what you mean?”@ABC6 #DifferentHere pic.twitter.com/roFEAcsq32
— Ian Steele (@RealianSteele6) September 24, 2024
Although Tatum didn’t get enough playing time, whenever on the court he showed why he is one of the best players in the league. In the Olympics, Tatum averaged 5.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.5 assists.
