In Game 1 of their first-round playoff series, the Boston Celtics dominated the Philadelphia 76ers with Jayson Tatum leading the way in the 123-91 win.
Tatum, who returned from his brutal Achilles injury last month, scored 25 points to go with 11 boards and seven assists. And in the process, he surpassed his idol, the late, great Kobe Bryant, on an NBA all-time statistical list.
He moved into 11th all-time on the playoff threes list, taking over the spot previously held by Bryant. Tatum’s milestone 293rd playoff 3-pointer occurred in the second quarter to boost the Celtics to a 23-point lead.
Before heading to the bench early due to the blowout, Tatum had 9 of 17 shots. He was only 1-for-7 from downtown in the game and made all six of his free throws.
Two more threes will move Tatum into 10th place, passing former NBA star J.R. Smith’s 294 threes in the postseason. That seems highly likely to happen soon. The Celtics remain the favorites to win the Eastern Conference side of the playoffs bracket, especially with Tatum back.
His return to form has been impressive to watch, as he suffered an Achilles tear during last postseason, which hindered his team’s chances of advancing. Ultimately, the Indiana Pacers won the Eastern Conference to challenge the Oklahoma City Thunder.
After successful surgery, Tatum dedicated himself to rehabilitation and recovery, which helped bring his return to the hardwood much sooner. That occurred on March 6 with the Celtics already among the top teams in the Eastern Conference, thanks to strong play from All-Star Jaylen Brown and supportive teammates.
This season, Tatum averaged 21.8 points, 10 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 41.1 field goal percentage. He also made 47 of 143 threes in his 16 games during the regular season.
Depending on how far the Celtics go, Tatum could move further up the all-time 3s list, potentially passing NBA champion Danny Green’s 315 3s or the legendary Reggie Miller’s 320 3s.
With the Celtics winning Game 1, they’ll look to build a 2-0 lead when they host the 76ers, without big man Joel Embiid again, on Tuesday evening in Boston.