Jayson Tatum missed a game earlier this week due to injury, but he appears to be good to go. The four-time All-Star is not on the injury report as the Boston Celtics get ready for a huge matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks.
Jayson Tatum did not play against the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday due to a left hip contusion. However, the injury does not appear to be that drastic. The former No. 3 pick returned against the Washington Wizards on Tuesday and posted 28 points, nine rebounds and five assists in a loss.
Heading into their next matchup, it goes without saying why the Celtics need Tatum in the lineup. After having a dominant lead at the top spot in the standings for most of the year, the Milwaukee Bucks managed to pass them. Giannis Antetokounmpo and company currently hold a three-game lead for first with only a handful of games to go.
If Boston is able to pick up a win, they can gain some ground in the race for the one seed. Even though there aren't many games left, they could still reclaim the No. 1 seed before the playoffs. However, they'll need the services of their best player to do so.
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Jayson Tatum put on a show against the Milwaukee Bucks earlier this year
Thursday night will be the second time the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks will face off this season. The two Eastern Conference juggernauts were part of the Christmas Day lineup, and Jayson Tatum put on a show for the national audience.
Tatum played 36 minutes in the last matchup and did a little bit over everything in the blowout win over Milwaukee. He ended the day with 41 points, seven rebounds, five assists and three steals. What's most impressive is that he did this on nearly 64% shooting from the floor.
Given how much is at stake, the Celtics will need another performance like that from Tatum. Not only is this game important for the standings, but the postseason as well. This matchup is sure to have a playoff atmosphere, and will be a measuring stick game for both teams.
After coming up short in the finals last year, Tatum has taken his game to new heights. In 70 games this season, he is averaging 30.1 points, 8.9 rebounds and 4.7 assists.
With all the superstar talent in this matchup, it is sure to be a great game.
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