Jason Tatum’s Struggles in Playoffs Highlight Celtics’ Challenges

In the initial games of the series, Jason Tatum struggled. The Knicks’ defense, particularly from Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby, has effectively contained the Celtics’ star.

After a strong first-round showing against the Magic—averaging 31.3 points and shooting 44.7%—Tatum has managed only 18 points in the Eastern Conference semifinals, with a troubling shooting percentage of 28.6%. Additionally, he’s turned the ball over eight times over these two games.

A striking moment in Game 2 was the Knicks’ comeback, marked by Tatum getting stripped by Bridges as he tried to make a play at the end of the game.

“I completely own the way I played this series,” Tatum admitted in Boston. “I can’t sugarcoat it. I need to improve, and I hope I do.”

Given their 0-2 deficit, the Celtics will need Tatum to step up.

This drop in performance has come as a surprise. During the regular season, Tatum averaged an impressive 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and a career-best 6.0 assists. Against the Knicks in the regular season, he was particularly dominant, averaging 33.5 points and 7.0 assists while shooting 53.5% from the field.

In those crucial moments of Game 2, Tatum initially faced Knicks Center Mitchell Robinson, who provided tough defense.

He attempted to maneuver past Robinson, dribbling toward the baseline. However, Anunoby and Bridges quickly collapsed on him, leaving Tatum with few options.

“I made the wrong read,” he recounted. “We were in a crowded area. If I had another shot at it, maybe things would’ve turned out differently.”

The Celtics’ issues extend beyond Tatum’s performance. Their three-point shooting has been subpar, sitting at just 25%. Kristaps Porzingis has also been hindered by upper respiratory illnesses, limiting him to 27 minutes in two games after missing eight games in March.

Moreover, the Knicks have shown they’re more effective in clutch situations, outscoring the Celtics by 25 points in the fourth quarter and overtime of both games.

“I appreciate him taking responsibility for the losses, but it’s a team effort,” said Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla. “We all need to improve to help our team. Yes, Tatum can lead us, but everyone needs to step up too.”