The Boston Celtics snapped the Los Angeles Lakers’ impressive winning streak, with Jayson Tatum delivering a stellar performance that reinforced his status as one of the league’s top players. Despite his standout performance, Tatum praised LeBron James and his remarkable NBA legacy in the league.

Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics heads for the net as LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers defends during the first half at TD Garden on March 08, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. James was called for a foul on this play.
© Elsa/Getty ImagesJayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics heads for the net as LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers defends during the first half at TD Garden on March 08, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. James was called for a foul on this play.

The Boston Celtics have emerged as one of the NBA’s top teams this season.

Head coach Joe Mazzulla has done an excellent job maximizing the impact of Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porzingis, further strengthening the team’s success.

Meanwhile, Jayson Tatum has firmly established himself as the franchise leader, delivering standout performances, including an impressive display against the Los Angeles Lakers.

Despite the long-standing rivalry with the Lakers, Tatum did not hesitate to praise LeBron James and his lasting influence on the NBA.

“Just respect the guys that came before you and paved the way. You know, can’t say enough good things about what he’s done and accomplished and what he means to the game of basketball. 

So as a fan, as a competitor, those moments that you get to play against him, you should cherish,” stated Jayson Tatum.

LeBron James continues to showcase his dominance in the NBA despite his age, consistently delivering standout performances for the Los Angeles Lakers.

He remains one of the franchise’s top players, playing a crucial role in Luka Doncic’s adaptation process and Austin Reaves’ development.

Despite the Lakers’ loss to the Celtics, LeBron put on an impressive display, finishing just shy of a triple-double with 22 points, 14 rebounds, and 9 assists.

Jayson Tatum seized the opportunity to shine against a historic rival like the Los Angeles Lakers. He delivered an impressive performance, averaging 40 points, 12 rebounds, and 8 assists, reinforcing his case as a strong contender for the 2025 NBA MVP award.

This season, Tatum continues to lead the Boston Celtics, who remain one of the most consistent teams in the Eastern Conference.

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Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics celebrates a basket during the second half against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center on February 02, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Celtics’ Jayson Tatum could miss game vs. Utah Jazz due to injury

Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum has been listed as questionable due to tendinopathy in his right knee. Kristaps Porzingis is also questionable with a non-COVID illness.

As a result, the Celtics may face the Utah Jazz without their two biggest stars. However, Jaylen Brown will be available and is expected to take charge of the team’s offense.

Although their absence is not yet confirmed, the potential loss of Jayson Tatum and Kristaps Porzingis may not pose a major challenge for the Celtics.

Boston has won four of their last five meetings against the Jazz. Additionally, Utah is struggling, having lost four consecutive games and currently sitting in 15th place in the Western Conference.