Jayson Tatum names team's 'most important guy'
Jayson Tatum believes Kristaps Porzingis is the most important player on the Boston Celtics roster. The All-Star made the comments after Boston defeated the Miami Heat in game three of their opening-round playoff series on Saturday. Porzingis bounced back from a difficult showing in Wednesday's loss.
"He's probably the most important guy on our team for what we're trying to accomplish," Tatum said. "No doubt in my mind. I knew he was gonna have a better game and bounce back. Just the way he started out the game on both ends of the floor. Being active. When he's protecting the rim, contesting shots, we're a different team."
Porzingis was acquired during the 2023 offseason. The Celtics needed some legitimate size in the middle of the floor, and Porzingis fits Boston's perimeter-based offense and is among the better rim protectors in the NBA. When he's playing at his best, he elevates the Celtics to another level, both offensively and defensively.
Nevertheless, the Celtics don't need Porzingis at his best to overcome the Heat. Erik Spoelstra's team is missing four members of its primary rotation, including star player Jimmy Butler. As such, Boston should have no problem securing two more wins and progressing into the second round of the Eastern Conference playoffs.
However, as the Celtics get deeper into the postseason, Porzingis's presence will undoubtedly become a swing factor for the franchise. Boston is aiming to win a championship. It has constructed a roster capable of competing with the best teams in the NBA, with six players talented enough to contend for an All-Star team. However, Porzingis's size and skill set ensure he is among the most important stars in the rotation.
If the veteran big man can stay healthy and Tatum continues to play at his current level, there should be no reason why the Celtics can't be competing in the NBA Finals in June.
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