The 2024 NBA Finals are almost here and the comparisons between the Dallas Mavericks and Boston Celtics have begun.
Specifically, we’re seeing comparisons between Jayson Tatum of the Celtics and Luka Dončić of the Mavericks.
Neither has yet to win an NBA title but according to Stephen A. Smith, one of them has had a better career than the other.
Smith says that Tatum has a better career at this point than Luka has.
“Luka has been in the league for six years, he’s missed the playoffs twice, and he’s been bounced out of the first round twice,” Smith said. “So four to six years, he either hasn’t got past the first round or hasn’t made it to the first round at all.”
.@stephenasmith says Jayson Tatum has had a better career than Luka Doncic heading into the NBA Finals 👀 pic.twitter.com/adaR7jkOV5
— First Take (@FirstTake) June 4, 2024
Smith pointed out that Doncic does lead Tatum in points, assists, rebounds, and field goal percentage. However, in his seven-year career, Tatum has only been bounced out in the first round once. He’s also been to five conference finals and this is his second NBA Finals appearance.
“That’s where I think he (Tatum) gets the edge,” Smith says. “He hasn’t gone home early.”