Boston Celtics Should Have Traded Jayson Tatum...

Boston Celtics Made A Huge Mistake By Keeping Jayson Tatum

The Boston Celtics had a 72-50 lead early in the third quarter against the Detroit Pistons. A 22-point lead in the second half usually leans toward a victory at the end. But not on this particular night. In the end, Detroit clawed its way back and won 121-113 over Boston.

While it’s only the first game of the season, this could become a recurring theme for the Celtics for the rest of their campaign. Despite Paul George’s 38-point explosion, it wasn’t simply enough. He did not get much help from his teammates, especially Jayson Tatum, who only scored 13 points on 6-for-23 shooting, including a 0-for-7 dud from behind the arc.

Celtics Should Have Traded Jayson Tatum Instead Of Jaylen Brown

One bad game isn’t a normal cause for alarm. However, it’s not hard to envision that, had the Celtics retained Jaylen Brown rather than Jayson Tatum, today’s outcome could have been different.

While Tatum has become a consistent MVP candidate prior to his devastating Achilles injury, he’s clearly not as impactful on both ends of the floor compared to Brown. He’s a prolific shotmaker but lacks the intangibles as a leader. If he isn’t making his shots, he drags his team down further.

That’s where Brown excels. Sure, he has his flaws. But speaking of personal accolades, there’s a reason why he won the 2024 NBA Finals MVP award – he’s that good. And without Tatum for most of last season, Brown proved to everybody that he’s a top-tier player at the NBA level by leading the Celtics to 56 wins.

Furthermore, it’s worrisome to think that the Boston Celtics decided to pair Tatum with Paul George, a player who has suffered extensive injuries for a good part of his career. If both are bothered by their previous ailments, who can the team lean on as the season progresses?

It’ll be hard to see this team climb out of the East, especially with the Knicks, Sixers, and even the Pacers blocking their way. Had they kept Tatum and Brown, there might have been a chance. Or had they kept Brown over Tatum, this team would still be considered a contender.