Former NBA guard doubles down on Jayson Tatum criticism

Jennings' comments lack substance. Tatum was arguably the most complete player in the league last season. Sure, his offensive production slowed, but he emerged as an elite facilitator, both as a passer and a screener. 

Furthermore, Jennings has no reason to continue this war of words with Tatum. There had never been a reported issue between them until this past week. Tatum's response was also respectful and didn't add fuel to the fire. Instead, Jennings is driving views and clicks with a narrative that comes across as jealous and bitter.

When player-run podcasts first emerged, they were celebrated as a way for fans to connect with former and current stars in a new way. Those shows were supposed to provide behind-the-scenes stories and anecdotes. While some shows do that, others, such as "Gil's Arena," are turning into turbo-charged clickbait machines. 

If Tatum wins a Finals MVP, Jennings will claim he helped light that fire, but if the Celtics star fails to reach that height, Jennings will claim he's been correct all along. It's a move directly out of the Shaquille O'Neal playbook. 

Jennings has picked a fight with Tatum because the media has made it easy to do so. After all, they spent all summer questioning his credentials despite a championship, a third All-NBA First Team selection and a second Olympic gold medal. 

Tatum has nothing to prove, but that doesn't mean Jennings will leave things alone. Unfortunately, that is where the problem lies. Forcing criticism for the sake of it is not only disingenuous, but it will hurt Jennings more than Tatum in the long run.