Former NBA champion issues bold statement about Boston Celtics star duo: "Right now, I believe Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are the best duo in the NBA”
Former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins believes Boston Celtics stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are the best duo in the league.
Tatum and Brown have gelled well since last season, leading their team to a Finals appearance. They have successfully managed to carry over their form into this season as well.
Through 10 games, Tatum and Brown are averaging a combined 54.3 points, 11.9 rebounds and 6.7 assists per game, shooting 47.1% from the field.
During an appearance on NBC Sports, Perkins was asked to compare Tatum and Brown to Memphis Grizzlies duo Ja Morant and Desmond Bane. Not only did the former Celtics center pick the "Jay's" as the better duo, he also gave them the label of the best duo in the NBA.
Here's what Perkins said:
"Because Desmond Banes has not proven enough right now. Not on the All-Star caliber yet, which I think he's taking strides to get there. I have to go with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Matter of fact, right now, I believe Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are the best duo in the NBA."
With respect to their production and availability, Tatum and Brown have created a significant separation between them and the other star duos around the league. They have had a massive impact on their team's winning start so far and are efficient on both ends of the floor too.
Tatum and Brown are also on the younger side, which helps them bring the required intensity every night. Both players can switch as the No. 1 option depending on which one of them gets going, a luxury not many teams possess around the NBA.
Also read: Former NBA champion lauds Jayson Tatum for 39-point effort in win over Memphis: “Walked into Memphis crib tonight with muddy shoes… Left his damn door prints”
Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown's chemistry will keep Boston Celtics in the hunt for another finals run
Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown's presence has been vital to the Boston Celtics' 7-3 start to the year.
The Celtics experienced a roadblock even before the season started because of coach Ime Udoka's suspension. They started the year as one of the best offensive teams but failed to maintain their defensive efficiency, which was their calling card last season.
However, with the "Jay's" leading their charge, the Celtics could rely on their star duo's exploits to give them a winning start. Boston has continued to improve on defense gradually as well.
Tatum and Brown are developing into solid leaders for the team on the court, which will benefit Boston in its pursuit of returning to the Finals. The two also have plenty of playoff experience, with Tatum playing 74 games and Brown making 85 postseason appearances.
They have also managed to get the all-important experience of playing and also falling in the Finals. This will bode well for them to potentially win a championship if they win the conference title again.
It will be a tough route given the competitive nature of the league this season. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown will have their tasks cut out this time, but so far, they've displayed that they are up to the challenge.