Fox Sports’ Emmanuel Acho suggested that the Boston Celtics actually match up better against the New York Knicks without Jayson Tatum on the floor, attributing the team’s improved mindset and toughness to Jaylen Brown’s leadership instead.

On his show, Acho said, “The Celtics match up better against the Knicks without Jayson Tatum than they do with him. Not because of talent, exclusively because of mindset. I believe a team is a reflection of its leader. Jayson Tatum is the leader of the Boston Celtics. They’re an incredible team, an incredible talented team, but they are not as tough a team.”

Kevin Durant’s Sharp Rebuttal

NBA superstar Kevin Durant quickly responded to Acho’s remarks with pointed criticism, taking to social media to call out what he described as “hot takes” from former football players who lack firsthand basketball experience. Durant’s message was clear and uncompromising:

“Hot take artist have ruined the sport. Football guys, no disrespect but y’all boys need to stay in ya lanes, u don’t know what it’s like it between these lines man give it a break. Dudes who quit football early to pursue media talkin mental toughness, cut it out.”

Durant’s blunt response resonated widely, with many fans and analysts agreeing that Acho’s comments unfairly questioned Tatum’s leadership and toughness, especially given Tatum’s elite performance before his injury.

Tatum’s Injury and Celtics’ Resilience

Jayson Tatum suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon late in Game 4 against the New York Knicks, an injury that ended his season and required surgery. His absence was a significant blow to the Celtics, who had relied on him as their offensive and emotional leader throughout the year and their recent championship run.

Despite the setback, the Celtics responded emphatically in Game 5, winning by 25 points without Tatum. Acho’s comments, however, sparked debate about leadership and toughness, with many feeling that his critique oversimplified the complexities of the team’s dynamics and Tatum’s role.