Paul George calls Jayson Tatum MVP candidate - “He could have very well been satisfied with that”

LA Clippers star wing Paul George had some high praise for Boston Celtics superstar forward Jayson Tatum during the premiere episode of his new podcast.

Speaking on “Podcast P with Paul George,” George was asked his thoughts on the MVP race. George proceeded to go in-depth on why he believes Tatum should win MVP, highlighting his improvement since last season as well as Boston’s team success:

"What Tatum is doing is impressive," George said.

"Young guy, went to the finals last year. He could have very well been satisfied with that. He's gotten better though. His game has gotten better, and he's confident with who he is as a player in this league now, and it's showing. 40-balls, 50-balls, like he is going crazy.

“What is Boston? First in the East? You've gotta give it to Tatum, what he's doing is incredible. People didn't think that team was gonna get back to where they're at. They didn't think they'd be that successful last year, and what they're doing now, Tatum is my favorite in the MVP race."

(18:36 mark below)

Jayson Tatum is averaging a career-best 30.3 points, 8.9 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.8 blocks and 3.3 3-pointers per game on 46.0% shooting. Meanwhile, Boston (45-21) has the third-best record in the NBA.

However, Tatum is facing some stiff competition in the MVP race from fellow superstars Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Joel Embiid. All three are putting up impressive stats on elite teams. Jokic’s Nuggets (46-19) and Antetokounmpo’s Bucks (46-18) have both surpassed Boston in the overall standings as well.

In the NBA’s latest Kia MVP Ladder, Tatum ranked third behind Jokic and Antetokounmpo. With just 16 games remaining for Boston, it remains to be seen if Tatum will be able to narrow the gap.

Jayson Tatum injury update

Boston Celtics superstar forward Jayson Tatum

Jayson Tatum missed just his fifth game of the season on Monday night versus Cleveland. Tatum was ruled out with a left knee contusion. However, he isn’t expected to be sidelined for long, according to Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla:

“I don’t expect it to be long-term,” Mazzulla said.

When asked if he expects Tatum to be available for their next game, Mazzulla said:

“I hope so.”

The Celtics fell 118-114 in overtime to Cleveland without Tatum, marking their third straight loss. Overall, Boston is now 43-18 with Tatum and just 2-3 without him this season.

Boston will next play against Portland (31-34, 10th in the West) on Wednesday.