Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum has been taking a lot of heat lately for his poor shooting performances since returning from his Achilles injury in early March. In his first eight games back, Tatum is shooting just 38.8 percent from the floor and 29.3 percent from downtown, both of which are roughly seven percentage points below his career averages.
Tatum's been especially bad over his last two games, going 9-for-31 from the field and 4-for-16 from downtown during that stretch. His cold shooting has been tough to watch for Celtics fans who are accustomed to him being one of the best scorers in the game.
It's only been a few weeks since he returned, however, and it's not surprising that he's rusty after a 10-month absence. He should snap out of it once he gets some more games and reps under his belt.
On Tuesday's episode of "First Take," NBA champion Iman Shumpert explained why he isn't worried about Tatum's cold spell.
"I don't think that the Celtics should take the bait of feeling like this is a 'make sure he fits' type of situation. ... When May 1st comes, he'll be ready."
—@imanshumpert on Jayson Tatum's recent slump ☘️ pic.twitter.com/UONakB1rx6
— First Take (@FirstTake) March 24, 2026
"I don't think that the Celtics should take the bait of feeling like this is a 'make sure he fits' type of situation. They should not take that bait," Shumpert said. "This is a guy coming back from a major injury. We already know how it goes."
Shumpert believes Tatum will be back to normal by the NBA Playoffs.
"When May 1st comes, he'll be ready. He will have his legs under him. He'll be shooting the ball better," Shumpert said.
The former guard also praised Tatum for remaining aggressive and continuing to look for his shot. They're not falling now, but they will eventually.
"I love the aggression. Don't take the bait Jayson Tatum or Boston Celtics. Just make sure you keep implementing him into the offense... He'll be alright," Shumpert concluded.
Boston fans hope Shumpert's right, ideally sooner rather than later.
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