Jalen McDaniels, Who Is Fixated on Winning, Again Shows He’s Not “Bored Making the Right Play Over and Over.
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The Boston Celtics and Toronto Raptors accomplished their second consecutive regular-season series whitewash on Monday night at Scotiabank Arena. The visitors’ NBA-leading record is now 31-9 after their 105-96 victory.
Jaylen Brown’s right knee hyperextension kept him out of action, thus the hosts had an easier time deciding whether to always send a second defender after Jayson Tatum to force his teammates to defeat them.
The soon-to-be five-time All-Star scored just 19 points in the end, far less than his 27.4 average. But in addition to pulling down a game-high 14 rebounds, Tatum also disheveled six assists, resulting in 17 points—his fifth-highest total of the year.
That includes this dime to Luke Kornet, who walked away from a stunting Jalen McDaniels while flaunting his handles.
That was a part of the Raptors’ 30-9 comeback after they had led 18-3 at the beginning of the second half. The three-time All-NBA selection frequently launched downhill attacks to spearhead the Celtics’ counterattack.
And with 1:17 remaining in the game, Tatum gave Boston a 103-96 lead by beating the double team and setting up the game-winning three-pointer. Tatum made the pass to Derrick White in the corner for a moonball.
In response to a question regarding his methodical and collaborative strategy when facing double teams that aim to irritate him and lessen his scoring potential, the former Duke Blue Devil said what follows.
It’s not really challenging. It simply involves playing basketball the proper manner. I attract a lot of interest. I’m aware that teams won’t allow me to play without restriction. I recognize that.
“So, throughout the game, make the right plays and passes by watching film, figuring out when they’re going to double, and just trusting it. Don’t stray from that.” I could shoot over it or attempt to beat the double each time. But avoid becoming weary of consistently making the correct play.”
Teammate Jrue Holiday, who scored a team-high 22 points in Monday’s victory against Toronto, joked about Toronto doubling Tatum, according to Jared Weiss of The Athletic: “I like wide-open shots.” I’ll accept them.Thus, do not stop doubling so that I might receive open shots.”
