“Stand up and CONQUER!” Jayson Tatum gets harsh reality check from Stephen A. Smith ahead of Game 6
Stephen A Smith on Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown performance in game 6
Boston Celtics marquee star Jayson Tatum has not had a monumental game in the 2022 NBA finals so far whilst his team has gone down 3-2 approaching Game 6. As a result of which sports analyst Stephen A. Smith gave him some advice.
Boston Celtics made it to the NBA Finals defeating some of the top contenders in the conference. They were praised for their performance and even labeled “favorites” to win the championship based on their hot form. In the finals too, Celtics played brilliantly, won 2 games, and always led the series till game 4. But Golden State Warriors put up an emphatic performance in Game 5 and took lead at a very important juncture in the Finals. Celtics though playing at home, are under the immense pressure of a “Win or go home” situation. To win Game 6 against the Warriors, Celtics’ star man Jayson Tatum needs to step up. Stephen A. Smith believes that Tatum should change the way he approaches the match, and make a huge impact to seal the deal.
Stephen A Smith on his “First Take” show, was asked who he thinks should level up their play in Game 6 between Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Both the stars have been consistent enough to carry Celtics in the series, and their performances defined the outcome of the games. But Stephen A Smith sees potential in Jayson Tatum and expects him to step up in game 6.
Stephen A Smith believes that Jayson Tatum should be more impactful for Boston Celtics
Since entering the league, Jayson Tatum has excelled in every department of the game and helped Boston Celtics reach their 1st NBA Finals in 12 years. 24-years old star was awarded the inaugural Larry Bird Eastern Conference Finals MVP award, after leading the Celtics to a 100-96 Game 7 win over conference toppers Miami Heat.
So for Smith, it is naturally Tatum’s job to carry the Celtics over the hump. While Jaylen Brown and Smart are making some important contributions in the games, Tatum’s production has been vital for the team. Statistically, Tatum takes more shots and has more offensive duty than any other stars on the roaster.
But 54-yers old Smith warned the former Duke star to stop expecting the referees to get the calls and work on his game. He said, “He’s looking for help from the officials. You’re not winning championships that way…come championship round, officials gon’ look at you like ‘What you want me to do? This is your job. Play,’”
Also, it is eventually the performances that define players’ status in the league. Jayson Tatum has been a top-notch player and it’s time to shine bright on the biggest stage of all. 3-time NBA Champion Stephen Curry has done it with his 43-point performance in Game 4, the Celtics would also expect a similar outing from Jayson Tatum to win their record 18th NBA title.
Game 6 is just hours away and both teams will be playing for different reasons – Golden state Warriors to close out the series, and Boston Celtics to force game 7. Though the Celtics have a 2-6 record in Game 6 since the 2017 playoffs, they need to come up strong against the Warriors. Ready for the showdown?
Also Read: “I would have been killed” Stephen A. Smith reveals shocking story on being asked to run for Senate
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