After sweeping the 76er's I think it's time to ask the questions - are Jayson Tatum and the Celtics a legit contender in the bubble? Or are they just benefitting from a LeBron-less eastern conference?
Well, why can't it be both?
Sure, the 76er's lost Ben Simmons, but they still have a stacked offensive. It may have seemed like 76ers chances all depended on the efforts of Joel Embiid. But with a support case of Horford, Richardson, and Tobias, the 76er's were some peoples pick to win the East.
And even if Philadelphia under performed, does that mean the Celtics are not actual contenders? Well...
Jayson Tatum is a star.
People have been saying it for a while - but this NBA bubble is his time to show it. But Kemba is also and star, and Jaylen Brown is making playing like he should be in the conversation. These three players are all averaging over 20 points per game in the Bubble.
Which brings us to another question - is this the new Boston Big Three?