NBA Finals: Andrew Wiggins’ 3-Word Advice to Mavs for Stopping Jayson Tatum

One best-of-seven series remains to crown a new reigning power in the NBA. The Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks are set to clash on the grandest stage, deciding a new champion in the process. For the Mavericks, their improbable run will require another miracle. They have to slow down the Shamrocks led by the duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown who are supported by an array of impactful stars. But what if they could cut off the most dangerous weapon? Luckily, they have some help with Andrew Wiggins.

When conversing with Sports Net, the Golden State Warriors forward discussed the much anticipated NBA Finals matchup. Having been the guy who primarily slowed down Jayson Tatum when they met in the 2022 NBA Finals, the Canadian stalwart had three words for the Mavericks. “Make them uncomfortable” he advised the Dallas side who are tasked with stopping the star-studded Celtics.

Wiggins further explained, “That’s the main thing in making someone uncomfortable. A great player always has one or two moves, their go-to moves but let’s see if we can make them do that third or fourth, or fifth option. How that’s going to look like? Keep that body on them. Try to wear them down. That was my goal”.

In the 2022 playoffs, Wiggins came second in the voting for Finals MVP behind Stephen Curry. It was primarily because of his tenacious defense on Jayson Tatum. Wiggins was like a hound behind the ball. The Celtics All-Star wasn’t given any room to rest, constantly reminded of Wiggins’ presence through his body bumps. Moreover, he was relentless, contesting everything and forcing Tatum to work outside his body of comfort.

Tatum would only average 21.5 points and 6.8 rebounds during their Finals clash, the least he had in any series during the postseason run. However, it’s going to be a lot more complicated for the Mavericks because of the reinforcements the Celtics welcomed in the offseason. The backcourt of Derrick White and Jrue Holiday are fundamentally sound on either side of the floor. Additionally, Jaylen Brown time and again been the lead scorer for Boston in the postseason.

There is also a chance Kristaps Porzingis, a former Maverick returns by the time the Finals begin. Boston doesn’t hinge completely on Tatum anymore. He has multiple options to defer and could easily live with scoring less than his average. The only drawback it has for Jayson Tatum is the doubts over his status as a superstar in the league.

How good has Jayson Tatum been in the playoffs?

Jayson Tatum might only have seven years of experience under his belt, but the Duke product is a breathtaking talent. He has refined and polished his game every season, adding a new avenue to his arsenal. Over his career, he has averaged 23 points and 7.2 rebounds. This season when he made the All-NBA First Team, Tatum put up 26.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and a career-high 4.9 assists. This is especially praiseworthy considering the Celtics added two All-Star caliber stars to the roster this year.

In his short career, Tatum has found tremendous success during the postseason. He has led Boston to the playoffs in each of his seven seasons so far. Over the last four years, they have made it to the conference finals every year. Having played 108 postseason games, Tatum averages a hefty 24.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game.

Going into the NBA Finals, the Celtics are yet to be battle-tested. Each side they faced had a hobbled star absent from the contest entirely or partially. They have only played 14 games as compared to the Mavericks’ 17. In those games, Jayson Tatum is averaging a double-double with 26 points and 10 rebounds.

The Finals is more than just a chance at a championship. With this win, Boston could become the most accomplished NBA franchise over the Lakers. Jayson Tatum and Co will achieve redemption from their 2022 debacle. It could also very well be the beginning of a perennial threat if the sleeping giants taste glory once again.

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