Gilbert Arenas clapped back at the “soft” claims, proving with stats how crucial Tatum is for the Celtics.

Former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas has recently addressed criticisms labeling Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum as “soft,” using statistical evidence to underscore Tatum’s pivotal role in the team’s success.

Arenas, known for his candid commentary, has previously critiqued Tatum’s playing style, suggesting that while Tatum is highly skilled, he might be perceived as “boring” due to a lack of flashy plays. Arenas argued that incorporating more highlight-worthy moments could enhance Tatum’s visibility in MVP discussions.

Despite such critiques, Tatum’s performance statistics tell a compelling story of his importance to the Celtics. In the 2024-2025 NBA season, Tatum has been delivering impressive numbers, averaging 28.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game. These contributions have been instrumental in the Celtics securing the second-best record in the league.

Arenas has acknowledged Tatum’s talent, even including him among the best players in the league. He emphasized that Tatum’s consistent performance and ability to lead the team in crucial moments are indicative of his elite status.

Furthermore, Tatum’s recent achievements highlight his critical role in the Celtics’ lineup. On December 21, 2024, he recorded a historic 43-point triple-double in a commanding 123-98 victory over the Chicago Bulls, joining Larry Bird as one of the only Celtics players to achieve such a feat.