Jayson Tatum’s comments suggest he would have no problem missing out on the Finals MVP award.
Speaking to ESPN’s Malika Andrews before Game 5, Tatum said that while the award was important, it wasn’t the top thing on his mind.
“It’s important, but it’s not the most important thing,” Tatum said. “Isiah Thomas didn’t win Finals MVP every time. Tim Duncan didn’t always win Finals MVP. Larry Bird. Steph Curry only has one. Kobe won two of five.
“As a competitor, you want to win and accomplish everything that is in front of you. I won’t be upset at all that I didn’t win Finals MVP. I would be happy if I win the Finals.”
It’s the same as Tatum feeling this way, because in the end his teammate Jaylen Brown won the award instead of him.
Tatum averaged 22.2 points, 7.8 rebounds and 7.2 assists over the Finals, while Brown posted 20.8 points, 5.4 rebounds and 5 assists.
Tatum struggled with his shooting, making just 38.8 percent of his shots from the field throughout the series. But he led the Browns in points, rebounds and assists, while also becoming one of six players to lead a championship team in all three categories.
Others who have done it are LeBron James, Nikola Jokic, Larry Bird, Hakeem Olajuwon and Tim Duncan.
So while Tatum may not have won the Finals MVP, he’s in a very rare mood.
READ MORE: NBA Players React to Jayson Tatum Leading Celtics to NBA Championship
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