Jayson Tatum addressed reporters Monday night following the Boston Celtics’ 108–105 overtime loss to the New York Knicks in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals.
Despite building a 20-point lead in the third quarter, the Celtics watched it disappear as New York outscored them 53–30 from that point forward.
When asked about Boston’s sudden shift to high-volume three-point shooting during the collapse, Tatum admitted, “Probably some times that we settled… I could have put more pressure on the rim.”
The Celtics attempted 60 threes in the game, an NBA playoff record for most missed shots from beyond the arc.
Tatum, who went 4-for-15 from deep, said many of the attempts were within the team’s offensive flow: “A lot of shots that we want certain guys taking… we just couldn’t convert.”
He acknowledged in hindsight that Boston could have leaned more into attacking the paint: “We probably would drive the ball a little bit more… it’s a balance.”
Credit was also given to the Knicks’ defensive schemes.
“They’re a really talented team on both ends of the floor, well connected,” Tatum said. “You just got to be really intentional about what you’re trying to do.”
The Knicks limited Boston to just five points in overtime while forcing key turnovers late.
Responding to whether New York’s momentum fed their confidence, Tatum noted, “It’s a game of runs… they made some plays, they hit some shots… we just got to be better in the margins.”
Tatum also commented on his own shot selection, acknowledging some decisions he would like back.
“Some I settled,” he said. “I got to be better in some of those moments.”
When asked about the lack of foul calls on drives, Tatum dismissed officiating as a factor: “It’s the playoffs… we probably should just play without the refs.”
Jrue Holiday, returning from injury, had 16 points and drew praise from Tatum for his all-around impact: “The Swiss Army knife… does a little bit of everything for us.”
Despite the collapse, Tatum remained focused on adjusting for Game 2.
“We’re just focused on the Knicks right now… watch some film and get ready for next game,” he said.
Boston will look to even the series Wednesday night at TD Garden.
