The highly anticipated game between arch-rivals LA Lakers and Boston Celtics lived up to all expectations, with the contest ending in a nail-biting overtime finish. Nonetheless, the visiting Cs would take the W on the road led by the Big 3 of Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Marcus Smart.
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The 53-minute game between the two historic franchises was nothing short of a roller coaster ride. While the Celtics seemed in cruise control initially, they would blow a 20-point lead in the 3rd quarter, with the Lakers trio of LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Russell Westbrook going nuclear.
However, the Lakers were gassed out come the final crunch moments of the game, allowing the Celtics to rally back, forcing overtime, post which it was all downhill for Darvin Ham and crew. Though there were a couple of high-scoring performances, the night belonged to Tatum, who not only had a game-high but also strengthened his case for the MVP award.
Also read: 6′ 8″ Jayson Tatum Rocks a Kobe Bryant x Michael Jordan ‘Custom Jacket’ Before Facing NBA’s Best
The 6ft 8″ forward would showcase his clutch gene, hitting a fadeaway jumper over King James to send the game to OT. When asked about his expectations of winning the new Michael Jordan trophy, JT beamed with confidence.
Jayson Tatum shares expectations on winning the 2023 MVP.
There is no doubt JT is having his career season, averaging 30.2 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 4.1 APG, and 1.1 SPG shooting 47.0% from the field. To add to their opposition woes is Tatum’s new-found partnership with Brown, who are looking to etch their names as one of the greatest duos in the modern era.
In yet another impactful performance, avoiding a 3-game losing streak, Tatum caught up with NBA Insider Chris Haynes, post the win against the Lakers. When asked about how Tuesday night’s win at Crypto.com would further his case for the MVP, the three-time All-Star had the following response.
“I feel like I’m the best player when I step on the court. There are some great players in this league. I know I got my work cut out for me but I just try to focus at one game at a time, you know, keep winning, keep building, and let the rest take care of itself.”
If given today, Tatum would be the first recipient of the new Michael Jordan MVP award.
NBA unveils Michael Jordan trophy to be awarded to KIA MVP.
Hoop fans have something to be excited for as the NBA unveiled 6 new trophies named after legends of the game, the categories being the following.
One of the most key points of discussion was the MVP award named after His Airness. A five-time league MVP himself, there is yet to be a player who could capture the imagination of millions like the Bulls legend.
