The intense focus and pressure on athletes in prominent sports cities can be perceived not merely as a burden, but rather as an advantage – a viewpoint recently articulated by Toronto Maple Leafs forward Max Pacioretty. This perspective aligns with observations made by Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla regarding the scrutiny faced by his young star player, Jayson Tatum.
Speaking during the Netflix docu-series Starting 5 before the 2023-24 NBA season commenced, Mazzulla, coaching a team based in a city accustomed to high expectations, was asked about what an interviewer termed the “unfair criticism” aimed at Tatum, a key figure on a top team.
Mazzulla promptly corrected the interviewer`s choice of words.
“Gets to deal with,” Mazzulla clarified. “He gets to deal with it. It is the ultimate form of respect. This is precisely what we emphasize – `This is exactly what you aspired to.` You wished to be recognized as one of the premier players in the NBA, competing for the league`s best team, with the chance to become a long-term icon for the sport.”
“This is what you requested,” he concluded.
Tristan Blackwood