As the Celtics closed out the Orlando Magic in five games to open their 2025 playoff run, Hall of Famer Paul Pierce issued a declaration that turned heads across the NBA.
In a recent episode of Ticket & The Truth, Pierce said that Jayson Tatum is already on a “Kevin Durant trajectory,” and with just one more championship, could ignite debate over all‑time hierarchy.
Pierce continued, “He’s heading in the KD direction. Like, he can do everything KD can do. They similar in a lot of ways. He might even got more of a handle. His bag is just as good. He can shoot… Man, he can score just like him.”
Paul Pierce says Jayson Tatum is on a Kevin Durant trajectory:
“We going to have some uncomfortable conversations where he stand in history. He’s heading in the KD direction, he can do everything KD can do, they similar in a lot of ways.”pic.twitter.com/YWBUCKvTeh
— jb (@lockedupjb) May 2, 2025
Boston’s defending champions finished the regular season at 61-21, securing the Atlantic Division crown.
They finished No. 2 in the conference carried by a top-five offensive (119.5) and defensive rating (110.1), ranking eighth in points per game (116.3).
Jayson Tatum delivered on both ends, averaging 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds and 6.0 assists per contest in 72 games.
Still, the comparison to Durant, NBA MVP (2014), two‑time champion and 15‑time All‑Star, is weighty.
Durant’s resume includes four scoring titles, two Finals MVPs and a place on the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.
Now the Celtics shift focus to the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the New York Knicks, who knocked off Detroit in six games.
Boston swept New York in the regular season, but the Knicks arrive battle‑hardened by a Game 6 buzzer‑beater from Jalen Brunson.
Tip‑off is set for May 5 at TD Garden.
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