Ahead of Game 2 of the NBA Finals on Sunday, Dallas Mavericks coach Jason Kidd might be engaging in a bit of strategic maneuvering.
In a press conference on Saturday afternoon, Kidd boldly stated that Jaylen Brown, not Jayson Tatum, is the best player on the Boston Celtics.
This comment has sparked speculation among NBA fans and the media about whether Kidd is attempting to influence the dynamics between Tatum and Brown as they prepare for the next game.
Both Celtics stars have previously encountered similar media narratives and have consistently dismissed them. Brown emphasized the team-oriented nature of basketball, stating, “It’s a team game, we’re trying to focus on that. Everybody has their own opinions.”
When queried about the possibility of Kidd trying to create a rift between him and Tatum, Brown praised his teammate’s sacrifices and underscored the team’s collective focus. “We’ve been just extremely focused on what our roles and our jobs are,” Brown remarked, affirming his respect for Tatum and their shared commitment to winning.
Tatum also downplayed the commentary, reinforcing the team’s unity. “This is a team sport, right? We understand that. We wouldn’t be here if we didn’t have JB on our team,” Tatum said, dismissing attempts to sow discord among the team members.
“People try to drive a wedge in between us. I guess it’s a smart thing to try to do. But we’ve been in this position for many years, with people trying to divide us and say one of us should be traded or one’s better than the other. It’s not our first time at the rodeo.”
Despite Kidd’s possible psychological tactics, there is no indication that they are affecting the Celtics’ focus or unity.
The outcome of Game 2, which tips off at 8 p.m. ET at TD Garden on Sunday, will ultimately reveal the effectiveness of Kidd’s approach.
