Jayson Tatum posts Paul Pierce-like numbers: “I believe”
At least 54 free throw attempts in four games: Tatum is the first Celtic to do it since 2008. The last time, it was Paul Pierce – and Boston won the NBA title
The last time a Boston Celtics player got to the line this often over four games, Paul Pierce was still on the team. It was 2008, the year the franchise won its 17th NBA championship. Now Jayson Tatum is bringing back memories of that stretch.
According to NBC Sports Boston’s Dick Lipe, Tatum is the first Celtics player since 2008 to attempt at least 54 free throws in four consecutive games. The number illustrates how aggressively Boston’s star is seeking contact rather than settling for perimeter shots.
The latest example came against the Orlando Magic, when he finished with 32 points and 7 assists, along with an impressive 15-for-17 performance at the line. For perspective, Tatum alone made as many free throws as the entire Orlando team.
Paul Pierce believes in the Celtics
The reference to 2008 inevitably brings the conversation back to Pierce, a key figure in Boston’s last championship before its 2024 triumph.
I expect this team to be very competitive
Paul Pierce via NBC Sports Boston
For Pierce, the Eastern Conference is more open than ever. The New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers and Detroit Pistons have what it takes to make noise, but none appears to have established itself as the clear favorite.