Celtics running out of point guards - up steps Jayson Tatum


This is getting ridiculous. Boston's banged up point guard crew is comprised of Kyrie Irving (bum knee), Marcus Smart (non-self-inflicted hand injury & subsequent surgery), Terry Rozier (tweaked ankle) and Shane Larkin (flu requiring hospitalization).



Jayson Tatum to the rescue. In the Celtics win over the Raptors on Saturday, Jayson played some point and did nicely, scoring 24 points, hauling down six rebounds and handing out four assists.


In the past, I have broached Tatum being a three-position player able to play at the two, three and four. Manning the middle at the five is not out of the question with some added muscle weight. Playing point guard never entered my mind, but it apparently entered Brad Stevens' consciousness.


"Talented guy who does a lot of good things" is what Brad said about Jayson. Let's see - size, talent, versatility, character, coach-ability, youth - The Celtics may have a prize on their hands.


Can Jayson Tatum be a true 5-position player in the NBA? It is possible down the line. When I have written about Paul Pierce in the past - he of the stutter step and herky-jerky moves - I have pointed out that Jayson didn't have those in his game. But he does now. I liked the four assists on Saturday. Passing used to be a weak point for Tatum. He is a much better distributor now. We should be seeing more of Jayson at the one. A surprising but positive turn of events.

Follow Tom at @TomLaneHC

Photo via Jerome Miron/USA TODAY Sports Images