Introduction: Brunson’s Dominance
Prior to the start of the Celtics vs. Knicks series, I mentioned that New York potentially has the best player in this matchup. With the Knicks now holding a surprising 2-0 lead, it’s time to acknowledge Jalen Brunson without reservation.
Brunson’s Status Among Elite Players
This isn’t just a bold statement based on this series. Brunson ranks among the top-tier superstars, even if some are hesitant to officially label him as such.
Tatum’s Superstardom Debate
Similarly, there’s an ongoing discussion about Jayson Tatum. Despite being a likely fourth-time first-team All-NBA player, Tatum has faced barriers to joining the elite superstar ranks. This might stem from perceptions around his team being a “superteam,” akin to the challenges faced by Stephen Curry during his earlier years.
Tatum’s Performance Comparison
While Tatum’s efficiency may not match that of more prominent superstars, he offers exceptional rebounding, defense, and playmaking skills. He’s also shown improvement in finishing around the basket, although recent struggles against the Knicks have raised questions about his overall performance.
Brunson’s Clutch Performance
Statistics support Brunson’s rising status. Recently, he became the first player in NBA history to score 83 fourth-quarter points across the first eight games of two playoff seasons (2024 and 2025). In the crucial minutes of Games 1 and 2 against the Celtics, Brunson outscored Tatum 17-4 and even exceeded Boston’s total team score.
Tatum’s Clutch Difficulties
Over the past two postseasons, Brunson has amassed 90 clutch points, the highest total since Kobe Bryant’s 2009-10 season. In contrast, Tatum has struggled significantly, shooting 12 of 43 in the series against the Knicks and showing alarming statistics in clutch situations, continuing a pattern of inadequate performances in high-pressure moments.
Conclusion: The Status of the Superstars
Ultimately, Tatum’s superstar status seems to remain uncertain, leading to discussions about his role. While he possesses a great skill set, his clutch shooting shortcomings may hinder his recognition among elite players. With Brunson’s recent stellar performance, it appears that he has currently eclipsed Tatum in the hierarchy of NBA superstars.
