LeBron James Comes to Jayson Tatum's Defense

Jayson Tatum is a five-time NBA All-Star, a three-time All-NBA Team selection, twice making the First Team, and has led the Celtics to at least the Eastern Conference Finals in four of his first six years in the league.

Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports

Jayson Tatum’s efforts have greatly contributed to the Boston Celtics’ 54-14 record. This season, Tatum is averaging 27.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 4.9 assists.

Despite a promising projection, Tatum has faced criticism for his lack of championship success. In his one NBA Finals appearance, coming in 2022, the 26-year-old forward lost to the Golden State Warriors.

As captured by Mind the Game, a new podcast co-hosted by LeBron James and JJ Redick, the Los Angeles Lakers star forward believes Tatum is an elite player. James noted that many superstars hadn’t yet won a championship at 26-years-old.

“I didn’t win my first one till I was 28. I think (Nikola Jokic) won his first one at 27. I think (Michael Jordan) was 28, as well.,” said James. “We have a lot of expectations on JT, but he’s experienced a lot of winning in his career so far… four Conference Finals and a Finals appearance before the age of 26 is elite.”

James also commented on Boston’s roster upgrades.

“Personnel helps, adding (Kristaps) Porzingis and getting Jrue (Holiday) for a bag of Lay’s potato chips. That helps as well. JT is definitely, when you go and you start scouting for Boston, he’s the No. 1 guy, for sure.”

Check out the full video here. 

Further Reading

Derrick White Reflects on Basketball Journey, First Triple-Double: 'I Never Stopped'

Jaylen Brown Shares What's Fueling Career Year: 'Nothing in This World Gonna Break My Spirit'

Jayson Tatum Plays Entire Second Half vs. Suns: 'Don't Really Say That Many Times'

Jaylen Brown's Evolution Crucial to Celtics' Desire to Win with More Than Talent

Celtics Embracing Challenge to Go Beyond Most Talented

Jayson Tatum Opens Up About Sacrificing in Celtics' Title Pursuit: 'It's a Process'

Brad Stevens Discusses Celtics' Plan for Final Roster Spot

Marcus Smart Shares How Boston Shaped Him, His Message to Celtics Fans

Celtics Maturation Molded by Experience: 'It Builds, Like, an Armor'

Jaylen Brown Quieting Doubters, Validating What He Always Believed: 'Earn Everybody's Trust'

Joe Mazzulla Discusses Identity, Evolution of Celtics' Offense: 'Balance of Pace and Execution'