On the NBA regular season stage, Tatum's comprehensive performance won widespread praise from fans, and he once became a frequent guest on the mvp ranking list with his excellent team record and personal data.
However, the fierce competition in the playoffs has become a major test for him, which has always been a worry in his heart. According to this season's data, Tatum averaged 21.7 points, 10 rebounds and 5.4 assists per game in the playoffs, but his shooting percentage dropped to 41% and his three-point shooting percentage dropped to 27%; this Compared with his efficiency in the regular season, it is obviously inferior.
Tatum's scoring ability at critical moments has also been questioned by the outside world. Statistics from stat mamba show that since 2020, he has shot only 39.3% from the field and 25.7% from three-pointers at critical moments in the regular season and playoffs; the top 25 players in the league in scoring at critical moments , this hit rate is the lowest. This data reflects Tatum's difficulty in scoring points under high-pressure defense. He is unable to perform consistently and stably in high-end games. This is the reason why Tatum has never been able to produce results.
Although Tatum was the team's scoring weapon during the regular season, he also performed well both offensively and defensively, often giving people the impression of being the league's number one small forward. However, when the confrontation in the playoffs escalated, Tatum's technical shortcomings and limitations of his playing style began to appear. When faced with a tighter defense, Tatum's scoring method appears to be single, relying too much on outside shooting and breakthroughs, and lacking change and creativity. This style of play may be able to achieve certain results in the regular season, but in the playoffs, when opponents begin to deploy targeted defensive strategies, Tatum's scoring efficiency is greatly reduced.
As a disciple of Kobe Bryant, Tatum's offensive choices are often questionable, which is especially fatal at critical moments. He rarely uses the cover of his teammates or looks for scoring opportunities through complex tactical coordination. Instead, he tends to play alone, which is easily restricted by his opponents in the high-intensity playoffs. Tatum's decision-making on the offensive end has often been questioned, sometimes forcing shots in adverse defensive situations rather than looking for better scoring opportunities.
On the defensive end, Tatum can also affect the opponent's shooting through his height and arm length, but in the high-end games of the playoffs, his defensive stability and influence are not outstanding. It may have something to do with him being the team's first offensive core. Considering that he has to leave more energy to attack and score, it is understandable to slack off on the defensive end; however, with the title of Kobe's disciple, he should also be able to attack. Defend yourself, otherwise how can you convince others? After
experienced the baptism of the 2022 Finals, we thought Tatum could improve, but he also lost to Heat in the playoffs last year. But even so, this season the Celtics got another chance to win the championship, and many potential opponents fell one by one; even fans would ridicule: "The Warriors, which are best at defending doubles, have already Being eliminated, Tatum has no reason not to win the championship! "
But there is not much time left for him. His personal skills are too magic ball, and the young talents behind him are Alexander, Doncic, Brunson, and Edwards. They have already risen one after another, so they have to seize the opportunity to create a great cause of championships. If
can improve his scoring stability and performance at critical moments, and win the championship and FMVP this season, then Tatum can truly become the number one small forward. The three-year, $338 million maximum salary contract extension in advance will come as scheduled, and the Celtics will not be so demanding.
Tatum's personal strength has triggered extensive discussions about the value of stars and contract value. In your opinion, does he deserve a max contract? Where does he need to improve to prove his worth in high-end innings? We look forward to hearing your insights and discussions.
