Jayson Tatum's reputation won't be hurt by Olympic struggles

Jayson Tatum has struggled since joining Team USA this summer. He's been used in an unfamiliar role, which has led to multiple disjointed performances. His perimeter shooting has been particularly disappointing, with the NBA champion yet to see a shot fall from deep this summer. 

In a recent interview with Adam Himmelsbach of The Boston Globe, Tatum admitted that he isn't sure why he's finding it difficult to reach his usual level of basketball. The St. Louis native did accept that the different roles he's been asked to play have likely played a part.

“I don’t know,” Tatum said. “Each game is extremely different, but the main thing is that we win, so whatever we’ve got to do or I’ve got to do from game to game to be a part of that and contribute when I can, I’m going to do that.”

Tatum has struggled throughout the Olympics, averaging 6.3 points on 39% shooting from the field with zero made threes. He’s also averaging six rebounds and two assists per game in 19.9 minutes. Those numbers are a far cry from what we've come to expect from a perennial MVP candidate and arguably the most complete forward in the NBA.

Nevertheless, Tatum's reputation shouldn't suffer too much. He's playing within the limitations of the roles Steve Kerr has imposed upon him. Therefore, he's not allowed to play his natural game as a playmaker or scoring threat. 

Furthermore, Tatum's inconsistent play will quickly be forgotten if Team USA secures a gold medal. Winning solves everything, and outside of back-and-forths between rival fans, Tatum's play will rarely be spoken of. Any potential damage to his reputation will be minimal, and another strong season for the Boston Celtics will quickly consign his difficult summer to memory. 

However, Tatum must increase his game if selected for future international tournaments. In the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, he was the USA's second-best player behind Kevin Durant. Kerr will likely step away from USA duty after his tenure in Paris.

“To me, it’s a two-year; it’s a cycle," Kerr told Joe Vardon of The Athletic on Nov. 6. "Pop coached a World Cup and the Olympics, now it’s my turn to pass the baton. I think that’s kind of how it should be."

Tatum can still be a leading star for Team USA; unfortunately, that opportunity is probably another four years away.