Jayson Tatum has had a tumultuous year, enduring criticism from the media and NBA fans while helping the Boston Celtics win their 18th championship. Despite struggles with shooting during the playoffs, Tatum’s success continued as he made the Olympic team, although he faced challenges getting playing time.
Some NBA players debated Tatum’s playing time, questioning why a recent title-winning star was benched. Rumors circulated about coach Steve Kerr showing favoritism towards other players. Tatum’s shooting inconsistencies, noticed during the playoffs, have prompted him to work on fixing his mechanics.
Boston Celtics Superstar, Jayson Tatum, Working on Mechanical Issues With Jumper
Jayson Tatum’s Struggles Shooting Last Postseason and During the Olympics
This off-season, Tatum has been diligently working with skills coach Drew Hanlen, who has also trained NBA stars like Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Tyrese Haliburton. Hanlen expressed confidence in Tatum’s upcoming season.
“I don’t think Jayson looks at it like that. He’s like, ‘Compare my résumé at 27 to Michael Jordan, who never won one at 27. Compare it to LeBron, who had won one. Compare it to Steph, who had one.”
Tatum’s shooting will be crucial for the Celtics to repeat success, especially after shooting 28.3 percent from three-point range in the 2024 postseason and 38.1 percent without a three-point shot during the Olympics. Despite limited playing time in the Olympics, seeing Tatum work on his shooting is encouraging for the Celtics’ future.
