Jayson Tatum has a clear reason for not considering the Lakers a rival.
The Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers are set to clash on Saturday at TD Garden, but Jayson Tatum doesn’t see it as a rivalry. During his press conference after the Celtics’ 123-105 win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday, Tatum explained that the teams don’t compete often enough for him to view the Lakers as true rivals.
“I mean, I obviously understand the history between the Lakers and Celtics,” Tatum said. “But from my time in the league, I wouldn’t call the Lakers rivals. We only face them twice a year. The teams we’ve battled repeatedly in the playoffs—like Philly—feel more like real rivals to me.”
“You respect the history and the great players who have worn Lakers and Celtics jerseys. It’s an honor to be part of that,” Tatum continued. “So, of course, everyone looks forward to this game, just like they do every year.”
The Celtics-Lakers rivalry stems from their frequent clashes in the NBA Finals. They’ve met 12 times on that stage, an NBA record, but their last Finals matchup was in 2010.
Tatum, averaging 26.9 points, 8.8 rebounds, 5.8 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game in 2024-25, has never experienced a high-stakes Celtics-Lakers showdown. That’s why he doesn’t view them as rivals. The 27-year-old acknowledges the matchup’s significance and is honored to take part, but teams like the 76ers feel like bigger rivals to him.
Even if the players don’t see it as a major rivalry, the fans certainly do. They want bragging rights and will be eager to see their team win. The Lakers dominated the Celtics 117-96 earlier this season, and Boston will be looking to even the score and avoid a season sweep.
Paul Pierce Reacts to Jayson Tatum’s Comments
Celtics legend Paul Pierce had legendary battles with the Lakers in the Finals, and he was asked about Tatum’s remarks on Speak on FS1. Pierce firmly believes the rivalry remains because it played a key role in shaping the NBA.
“Well, no, because you feel the energy when the Celtics come to L.A. once a year,” Pierce said. “People call me like, ‘Hey, what’s the plan for the game?’ It’s one of those matchups. It will always be a rivalry. Regular season or Finals, this is what the NBA was built on—Lakers and Celtics.”
While fans and former players will always see it as the league’s biggest rivalry, Tatum doesn’t feel the same way. The six-time All-Star hasn’t had those battles—yet. But with both teams playing well, a Finals showdown isn’t out of the question. It’s a long shot, but it could still happen.
