Jayson Tatum could not care less about any NBA team heading into next season other than the Boston Celtics.
During his appearance on The Dan Patrick Show, Tatum was asked which team between the Philadelphia 76ers and New York Knicks he was more concerned about. In his response, the superstar forward simply chose to mention his own team.
"I would say I'm more concerned about the Celtics," Tatum said. "You know, I respect everyone in the league. Obviously, great players and great teams.
"But from my experience throughout, this is going to be my 10th season. We got to worry about us first. That's first and foremost."
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Jayson Tatum, Celtics facing immense pressure next NBA season
The Boston Celtics are one of the most interesting teams to watch next NBA season.
Following the stunning Jaylen Brown blockbuster trade this offseason, many will be watching how the Celtics fare throughout the next basketball year. Most importantly, all eyes will be on how Jayson Tatum embraces being the lone superstar left in Boston.
Tatum returned in March last NBA season after a speedy recovery from his torn Achilles injury, helping the Celtics' 56-win finish. However, a sudden left knee stiffness sidelined him in Game 7 of the opening round of the NBA Playoffs against the Philadelphia 76ers, ultimately losing the series and blowing their 3-1 lead.
Paul George will be tested as Tatum’s newest co-star in Boston. New additions Mitchell Robinson and Mike Conley will also be watched closely, while established players Derrick White and Payton Pritchard face pressure to step up and take on bigger roles for the team.
Celtics face Knicks, 76ers for East supremacy
In the end, while he is more focused on his team's progress and success, Jayson Tatum still cannot deny both the Philadelphia 76ers and the New York Knicks as teams to beat in the East next year.
The Sixers are featuring the most talented five-man lineup in the league, with Jaylen Brown and LeBron James joining Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and VJ Edgecombe.
On the other hand, the Knicks remain the standard as the reigning NBA champions who are led by Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and OG Anunoby.
The Boston Celtics will face the Knicks in New York on Oct. 23 and the 76ers on Nov. 10 in their first meetings with both teams next season.