Celtics' Jayson Tatum Struggles in Game 2 Loss to Knicks

The Boston Celtics have struggled in the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks, with star Jayson Tatum facing significant criticism for his performances. Despite holding a 20-point lead in Game 2, the Celtics lost 91-90, with Tatum's final possession mismanagement—dancing around the clock before turning the ball over—sealing their defeat. Tatum's overall play has been under scrutiny, averaging just 18 points per game on poor shooting and failing to assert himself as the team's leading scorer, drawing negative reactions from fans and analysts alike. Critics and former players have noted a lack of tenacity and self-confidence in Tatum, suggesting he hasn't risen to the challenge despite his elite scoring ability. Meanwhile, Knicks players like Mikal Bridges and Jalen Brunson have stepped up in clutch moments, with Bridges delivering a crucial game-winning steal. The Celtics now face a must-win Game 3 in New York, with the threat of elimination looming if they fall into a 0-3 deficit, a comeback no NBA team has ever achieved.