Ex-NBA champ dubs Jayson Tatum 'selfish' for Celtics star's MVP pursuit: "Not being negative"
Jayson Tatum won an NBA championship after leading the Boston Celtics to their 18th title last season. But aside from winning, the All-NBA forward is also in pursuit of the NBA's Most Valuable Player award as he continues to build on his already historic resume.
In an interview with Sports Illustrated's Bobby Krivitsky on Tuesday, September 10, Jayson Tatum discussed his chase for an NBA MVP award while also eyeing another championship at the same time.
"Winning takes precedence over everything. Winning a championship is most important. Playing the right way. But it's been done. It's possible. You can play the right way and dominate the game, you can strive for a championship, and be an MVP of the league. So, you don't have to sacrifice one for the other. You can do both."
Former Boston Celtic and NBA champion Kendrick Perkins had a harsh word to describe Tatum's MVP pursuit on NBA Today on Thursday.
"It's simple. Selfish. Selfish, he's selfish. I'm not being negative right now, but seeking or concentrating on one's own advantage, pleasure, or well-being without regard for others. I have no problem with a player being somewhat selfish and wanting to accomplish things on an individual basis."
While it started as a relatively harsh quote, Perkins shifted his argument on its head, ultimately offering his support to Jayson Tatum for his desire to win the NBA MVP award.
Jayson Tatum gives 2024-25 NBA Finals prediction
On Wednesday night, Jayson Tatum made an appearance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.
During his appearance, the Celtics forward gave his prediction for next season's NBA Finals showdown.
"It's going to be a rematch we're going to play Dallas again," Tatum predicted(5:32 mark).
Entering the new NBA season, the Boston Celtics open as the heavy favorites to repeat as NBA champions in 2024-25. Per Basketball-Reference, they have +300 odds, ahead of the New York Knicks (+725) and the Denver Nuggets (+750).