The defending champion Boston Celtics are coming off losing two of their last three games. For Jayson Tatum’s team, the upcoming game against the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday is going to be a battle to reclaim their legacy.

Tatum is enjoying another strong and healthy season, as he played in 35 of the team’s 38 games so far. Over this stretch, he has been averaging 27.8 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game.

In recent losses to the Sacramento Kings and Oklahoma City Thunder, Tatum contributed 26 and 15 points, respectively. Nevertheless, the Celtics’ star remains in top physical condition and is fully prepared for the upcoming game.

However, the Celtics are not without concerns. Jordan Walsh is listed as questionable due to illness, while Drew Peterson remains out with a concussion. Despite these absences, Boston is counting on its depth to secure a victory.

On the Pelicans side, Herbert Jones (shoulder) and Brandon Ingram (ankle) are out. Meanwhile, Keion Brooks Jr. (not with the team) and Dejounte Murray (elbow) are listed as questionable.

However, New Orleans has received a boost, with both Zion Williamson and Trey Murphy cleared to play. Williamson is returning from a one-game suspension, and Murphy has recovered from a sprained left ankle.

Jayson Tatum Reflects On Celtics’ Defensive Struggles In Recent Games

The Boston Celtics’ defensive performance in the fourth quarter has been a growing concern this season. Following a tough loss to the Sacramento Kings, Jayson Tatum addressed the team’s struggles to secure stops late in games over their last 15 outings.

“I think, partly, sometimes, our offense, whether it’s our spacing, whether we’re not shooting as well as we want to. Tonight, we had a lot of turnovers; I did, in particular. All those things play a part, and our defense needed to do better,” Tatum replied.

Jayson Tatum when asked by @CTabatabaie about the dramatic drop in the Celtics’ ability to get stops in the fourth quarter in their last 15 games:

“I think, partly, sometimes, our offense, whether it’s our spacing, whether we’re not shooting as well as we want to. Tonight, we… https://t.co/lYUgWevXr7 pic.twitter.com/8S5cE5iCbF

— Bobby Krivitsky (@BobbyKrivitsky) January 11, 2025

Despite the setback, the Celtics maintain an impressive 27-11 record, holding the second spot in the Eastern Conference. However, Tatum’s team must find a solution quickly to address their defensive struggle and sustain their position as a top contender in the East.