How Jayson Tatum Can Adjust To Find His Form Against A Stingy Knicks Defense

New York’s intention to limit Tatum’s drives has proven extremely effective so far. He’s averaging 11.5 drives per game against the Knicks after logging 13.3 during the first round. His efficiency on drives has plummeted from 45.2 percent shooting with a 5.7 percent turnover rate against Orlando to 26.7 percent shooting with an 8.7 percent turnover rate (and zero assists) against the Knicks.

Neutralizing Tatum’s slashing has cratered his dangerous playmaking and sunk the Celtics’ collective offensive flow, as they rely on him to create coveted drive-and-kick opportunities. Despite New York’s willingness to help off of shooters, pressuring Tatum’s shaky handle limits his ability to fire accurate passes to cutters and floor-spacers. 

Most of his 11 assists in the series result from transition opportunities or broken play situations. Even Tatum’s few half-court dimes didn’t come easy, as New York’s ball pressure and clogging of passing lanes made routine passes difficult. Note how hard Tatum and the Celtics had to work to convert these assists:

How Tatum And The Celtics Can Adjust

On two of Tatum’s 2-point makes in the series, Boston moved him off the ball and he benefited from motion and screening to free him. Targeting New York’s big men with off-ball screens complicates its switching intentions, which springs him loose downhill. Tatum can find favorable matchups after setting a screen himself, bypassing the driving phase entirely with seals at the basket.

New York’s constant pressure has led to hesitation from Tatum at times. In the few moments when he did attack decisively, positive results ensued. Indecision and hesitation have plagued Boston’s offense as a whole, not only Tatum. When Tatum initiates the offense before New York can set up help, he has a much easier time breaking its shell.

Despite Tatum’s notable issues with a well-oiled Knicks defense, the Celtics are two massive blown leads away from leading the series 2-0. If Tatum’s shots fall at Madison Square Garden, such as upping his 25 percent 3-point clip, the Celtics may be able to regain control of the series without tweaking their approach.

Luck isn’t solely to blame for Boston and Tatum’s 3-point struggle. The Celtics have the tools to make their lives much easier by attacking the basket and diversifying their offensive approach. They won’t and shouldn’t abandon their deep-range shooting. A more balanced and simple offense will help facilitate their preferred offensive identity. It’ll create higher-quality for looks for Tatum and everyone else, and presumably get this formerly great offense back on track.