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Are you a fan of Jayson Tatum and his impressive stats? If so, you may have noticed the ups and downs of his shooting performance. After a phenomenal run in the 2024 NBA playoffs, where he averaged an impressive 25.0 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game, Tatum's shooting mechanics came under scrutiny. Let’s dive into how Tatum and his shooting coach, Drew Hanlen, have worked to refine his shot and what it means for his future performance.
Throughout the intense playoff run, Tatum battled a shooting slump, as evidenced by his 42.7 percent shooting from the floor and just 28.3 percent from beyond the arc. Analyzing this slump reveals not just the stress of high-stakes games but also ongoing adjustments to his shooting technique. Hanlen highlighted that Tatum struggled with his shooting early in the 2023-24 season, prompting necessary tweaks that ultimately revitalized his scoring ability. By January 2024, Tatum hit 40.4 percent of his 3-point attempts, showcasing a marked improvement from his 32.4 percent in December 2023.
Hanlen outlined that Tatum’s shooting struggles were not indicative of a complete overhaul but rather a need for minor yet impactful changes. He emphasized a few key elements that determine when Tatum’s shot is at its best:
- Balance: Maintaining a stable base is crucial for consistent shooting.
- Straight Ball Path: Tatum's shooting form should keep the ball aligned on his right side without unnecessary circling motions.
- Shooting on the Way Up: Timing the shot for an upward trajectory is essential, particularly under defensive pressure.
These refinements helped Tatum regain his shooting prowess after struggling during the 2024 Paris Olympics. Hanlen mentioned that the adjustments focused on correcting Tatum's ball path, which was leading to flatter shots, particularly in contested situations. By prioritizing the mechanics of his shot, Tatum began to shine again as he ranked fourth in the NBA for made 3-pointers, totaling 191 as of mid-February 2025.
Adding to the conversation, recent insights revealed that many fans misunderstand Tatum’s shooting technique, often misinterpreting his unique release as a hitch. However, Hanlen clarified that Tatum’s double-jointed arm structure plays a crucial role in his shooting motion. This natural variation does not hinder his performance but instead is a testament to his adaptability as a player.
So, what can we expect from Jayson Tatum moving forward? If his offseason work continues to pay dividends, fans can anticipate him maintaining a strong scoring trajectory, possibly leading to further accolades for both him and the Boston Celtics. Tatum's combination of talent, work ethic, and the expertise of his coaching team positions him as one of the top stars to watch in the NBA.
In conclusion, Jayson Tatum’s journey through shooting slumps demonstrates the importance of technique in basketball. With ongoing support from Drew Hanlen and a commitment to refining his shot, Tatum is poised for success. Stay tuned for more updates on his stats and performance as he continues to evolve on the court!
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