Jayson Tatum leads NBA playoffs in elite defensive metric over Rudy Gobert

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Jayson Tatum’s return has significantly boosted Boston Celtics’ title hopes, with the 28-year-old looking back to his best form after recovering from an Achilles tendon injury.

Across the playoff series against the Philadelphia 76ers, Tatum has delivered consistent production. He has recorded three double-doubles in four games while averaging 24.8 points.

Yet beyond scoring and rebounding, another statistic has started to draw attention. It highlights a different side of his game, one that is proving just as influential during this postseason run.

Jayson Tatum leads playoffs in defensive field goal percentage, surpassing Rudy Gobert

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Tatum has emerged as the most effective defender in the playoffs when it comes to limiting opponent efficiency. According to The Lead, players guarded by the Celtics star are shooting just 35.7% from the field.

The metric only includes players who have defended at least 50 field goal attempts, making the sample size significant. Within those parameters, Boston No. 0 currently ranks first across the league.