Moments before tip-off of Sunday's Boston Celtics-Cleveland Cavaliers showdown at Rocket Arena, James Harden could be seen approaching Jayson Tatum and sharing some thoughts with the Celtics star, who was making his second appearance on an NBA court since returning from Achilles rehab.
Following the game, which the Celtics won 109-98, Harden revealed the nature of his remarks to JT.
James Harden on his convo with Jayson Tatum:
“You see a young guy of that caliber who has so much success and won a championship, and then that adversity hits. For him to have that mindset that nothing can slow him down and stop him, that’s an inspiration in itself.” pic.twitter.com/T2cH8fyDY7
— ¹⁰ (@HoodiGarland) March 8, 2026
Tatum and Harden reveal the two biggest mid-season additions to Eastern Conference contenders. Harden was acquired by Cleveland at the trade deadline and has markedly improved the Cavs since his arrival.
Tatum scored 20 points in 27 minutes of action against Cleveland, following up on his near triple-double debut at TD Garden on Friday night against the Dallas Mavericks.
It's not hard to tell that everyone around the NBA -- Tatum's opponents, included -- are happy to see JT back in action. It tells you the type of respect that Tatum has established around the league during his already wildly successful career.
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