Ahead of the start of the Celtics season, much of the focus was on Jayson Tatum. After an inefficient yet highly impactful postseason and inconsistent minutes in the Olympics, along with a new jump shot, many were wondering how Tatum would start the season. Through two games, Tatum has been stellar, averaging 31.0 points, 7.5 rebounds, 8.0 assists. In the first two games of the season, the total of these stats have only been done by one other forward in NBA history, Celtics legend and all-time great Larry Bird.
Only two forwards in NBA history have had at least 62 points, 15 rebounds and 16 assists in season’s first 2 games: Bird in 1987 and Tatum this year.
— Dick Lipe (@DickLipe) October 25, 2024
Jayson Tatum Joins Larry Bird With Historic Season Start
These historic averages highlight Tatum’s incredible all-around impact. In the first game of the season, Tatum poured in 37 points, 10 assists, and four assists on an absurd 14-18 shooting from the field and 8-11 from beyond the arc. Tatum and the Celtics made a statement win against a New York Knicks team that many considered to be their biggest threat. They won by a score of 132-109 on a night where the Celtics tied the NBA’s three-point record. Tatum’s efficiency and difficult shot-making, especially from three-point land, stood out in this game. Against the Washington Wizards, Tatum poured in 25 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists. While his efficiency wasn’t at the same level, and the Wizards are a lottery dweller, this was still a highly productive night for Tatum. The Celtics won 122-102, and Tatum sat out for the fourth quarter. Tatum’s historic numbers are more impressive, considering he hasn’t appeared in the fourth quarter.
Jayson Tatum’s jumper is looking pure. 🔥🔥
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) October 22, 2024
Bird’s Season
Let’s go back to 1987 when Larry Bird had a historic start to the season. In the first two games of the season, Bird posted averages of 37.5 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 7.5 assists. This included a 47-point, eight rebound, and seven-assist outburst in a one-point win over the Washington Bullets. Bird also had 28 points, 15 rebounds, and eight assists against the Milwaukee Bucks. That season, Bird averaged a career-high 29.9 points and led the Celtics to a top seed with 57 wins. Bird was also the runner-up for MVP that season. Notably, this was the all-time single ppg record in Celtics franchise history until Tatum’s 30.1 ppg in 2022-23.
A Career Year From Tatum
Jayson Tatum’s jumper is all the way fixed. About to have the best season of his entire career.
— Kevin O’Connor (@KevinOConnorNBA) October 22, 2024
Tatum’s start to the season is a highly encouraging sign that could lead to a career season. Many are suggesting Steve Kerr gave Tatum extra motivation and his improved jump shot will help him have a career year. Others point out that Tatum at 26 (turning 27 in March), is entering his true prime. Regardless, a career year for Tatum feels very much in play, especially with this hot start. While it will be hard to surpass his career-high of 30.1 ppg, it can’t be ruled out. With another potential dominant 60-plus win season along with improved efficiency, Tatum could find himself in the top three of MVP voting. Overall, from an efficiency and all-around impact standpoint, this is the best version of Tatum we’ve seen so far.
