Jayson Tatum Explodes for 51, Celtics Extend Winning Streak
Jayson Tatum exploded for a career-high 51 points on Tuesday night, leading the Boston Celtics to a 134-106 win over the Charlotte Hornets. Tatum was on fire from the start, scoring 20 points in the first quarter and 30 points by halftime. He finished the game shooting 18-of-29 from the field, including 7-of-12 from three-point range.
Third-year guard Marcus Smart added 22 points and 10 assists for the Celtics, while Jaylen Brown chipped in 19 points and 9 rebounds. Kemba Walker led the Hornets with 24 points and 8 assists, but it wasn't enough to overcome Tatum's historic performance.
The Celtics have now won five straight games and are 10-4 on the season.
Tatum's Big Night Marks Turnaround for Celtics
Jayson Tatum's 51-point performance is a sign of the Celtics' turnaround this season. After starting the season 2-3, including a tough loss to the New York Knicks, the Celtics have now won five straight games. Tatum has been a key part of that success, averaging 27.4 points per game on the season.
The Celtics have been able to turn things around thanks to their improved defense. They are now allowing just 103.8 points per game, which is sixth-best in the NBA. Tatum has been a big part of that improvement, averaging 1.2 steals per game and 0.7 blocks per game.
The Celtics will look to continue their winning ways on Friday night when they host the Philadelphia 76ers.
What's Next for Tatum and the Celtics?
Jayson Tatum and the Celtics are looking to continue their winning ways on Friday night when they host the Philadelphia 76ers. The 76ers are one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference, so it will be a tough test for the Celtics.
However, the Celtics have shown that they are capable of beating anyone when they play their best. If Tatum can continue to play at a high level, the Celtics will be a tough team to beat.
The Celtics are also hoping to get Gordon Hayward back soon. Hayward has been out with a broken hand, but he is expected to return to the lineup sometime in December. Hayward's return will give the Celtics another scorer and playmaker, which will make them even more dangerous.
The Celtics are a young team with a lot of potential. They are still learning how to play together, but they have shown that they have the talent to be a contender. With Tatum leading the way, the Celtics could be a force in the Eastern Conference for years to come.
