Jayson Tatum set a Celtics record for most 50-point games with his display yesterday, joining Michael Jordan and LeBron James on an exclusive list.
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The Boston Celtics are rolling to the league’s best record as things stand today. They’ve drawn 4.5 games clear of Brooklyn, who’re currently seeded 2nd in the Conference.
After a thumping at the hands of the OKC Thunder on January 3rd, the Cs are on a 7-game win streak currently. This streak includes a win over the 2nd-seeded Nets.
While Boston’s offense has been really great, their defense has also picked up of late. Robert Williams’ return from injury has boded well for the team. The Celtics are the 5th-ranked defense over the past month of play, conceding 111.3 points per 100 possessions.
Also Read – “He’s very good!”: Jayson Tatum Equals Larry Bird and Earns Acclaim From the Prince of England
Much of this success has to do with the form of Jayson Tatum. The 24-year-old swingman is averaging the highest points per game tally of his career this year at 31.1 ppg.
Tatum last scored below 20 points in the Celtics’ defeat to the Warriors last month.
Jayson Tatum joins Michael Jordan and LeBron James on an elite list
The 6’8″ forward put the Hornets’ defense to the sword with his showing on MLK Day. Tatum made 15 of his 23 field goal attempts, swishing 7 of his 12 3-point attempts.
This was his 10th career showing with 7 or more 3-pointers in a game. Tatum’s endeavors led to the Celtics leading the game from the first quarter till the final buzzer.
He sealed his 50-point night with a step-back jumper from 26 feet with 38 seconds remaining. This was his 5th regular season game with 50 points or more, and 7th overall. In doing so, Tatum joined some of the all-time greats on a list of great young scorers.
As expected, Wilt Chamberlain headlines this list of 50-point scorers. Also featuring are Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and LeBron James – 3 of the top 5 scorers of all time.
Tatum turns 25 on March 3 this year. He could draw level with Kareem, Rick Barry and LeBron if he turns in another 50-burger within the next 45 days.
