Jayson Tatum is high-stepping a bit amid his team’s recent run of success.
SI’s Chris Mannix shared a notable story about the Boston Celtics forward Tatum during a recent episode of “The Bill Simmons Podcast.” Mannix said that Tatum made a bold declaration to Philadelphia 76ers rival Joel Embiid, whom he shares a trainer with.
“[Tatum] works with Drew Hanlen, and Joel Embiid works with Drew Hanlen too, the skills coach,” said Mannix. “He called Drew one day when Drew was with Embiid … Before he got off the phone, he made Drew put it on speaker phone and said, ‘Embiid, you better win MVP this year because it’s mine next year.'”
At just 24 years old, Tatum already has the production to back up that claim. He is averaging 27.1 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.3 assists a game (all career-highs) for the Celtics this year. Tatum has also led Boston to a 47-29 record (including 22 wins in their last 26 games) and may even finish in the top four in MVP voting this season.
Embiid, who holds more impressive 30-11-4 averages for the 76ers, remains a frontrunner to win MVP this time around. But Tatum is carrying himself with a different kind of confidence right now, much like another one of his star teammates.
H/T NBA Reddit
Photo: Jan 4, 2020; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) during warm ups prior to the against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports
