The Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers, both regarded as top contenders in the Eastern Conference this season, recently clashed in a highly anticipated matchup. While the Celtics boasted a full-strength lineup, the 76ers were without key players Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
However, the Celtics faced a setback when Jayson Tatum was ejected in the third quarter of the game, essentially leaving them handicapped for the remainder of the match.
Tatum’s reaction to the referee’s controversial call was notably vivid, prompting a response from the four-time NBA All-Star during the postgame conference relayed by Jared Weiss on Twitter.
“Let’s set the record straight. I wasn’t that furious. Don’t misconstrue the narrative. I didn’t throw anything,” Tatum clarified.
Jayson Tatum: "Again, I wasn’t that fucking mad. Don’t put that narrative out there. I didn’t throw nothing. I said what I said. There was no magic words."
— Jared Weiss (@JaredWeissNBA) December 2, 2023
Despite Tatum’s dismissal, the Celtics defeated the 76ers by a score of 125-119.
Tatum was ejected for the second time in his NBA career, and he was clearly enraged by the decision.
Tatum did provide 21 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists for the Celtics before being dismissed.
Keeping this in mind, had Tatum continued in the game, he may have contributed to an even bigger win over the 76ers.
Tatum has averaged 27.4 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game for the Celtics this season.
Following the close win, the Celtics improved to 15-4 on the season and retained the top spot in the Eastern Conference.
Given their dominance, the Celtics are unquestionably the team to beat in the East right now.
an they maintain this form in the postseason and capture the franchise’s first NBA title since 2008? The only way to know is to wait and see.
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