While the NBA In-Season Tournament has faced criticism for various reasons, Boston Celtics’ Jayson Tatum has voiced a unique concern that sets him apart from other players. Following a victory against the Atlanta Hawks, Tatum openly shared his reservations about the ongoing competition.
Respecting the unwritten rules of the game is paramount for Tatum, and his issue with the In-Season Tournament goes beyond the visual aspects of the courts or varying team styles. According to Jack Simone of CelticsBlog, Tatum is troubled by the allowance for teams to continue scoring even after securing a definitive win.
In his view, scoring when the outcome is already determined lacks sportsmanship and respect for the opposing team.
The Boston Celtics currently hold the second seed in the Eastern Conference Group C, but a recent setback against the Orlando Magic has slightly impacted their standing with a two-win and one-loss record. With aspirations to improve their point differential, the Celtics are determined to make strategic adjustments as they progress in the tournament.
As Tatum and the Celtics navigate the challenges of the In-Season Tournament, the star player’s emphasis on maintaining sportsmanship and respecting the game’s unwritten rules adds an intriguing layer to the ongoing discourse surrounding this unique NBA competition.