5) Jayson Tatum’s behind-the-back pass to Al Horford
For any fair-weather fan who still views Tatum as a one-dimensional scorer, this play firmly put that outdated take to rest.
In one of Boston’s highest-leverage moments of the playoffs, Tatum drew a swarm of defenders on a drive and delivered a beautiful behind-the-back dime to a wide-open Al Horford. Horford canned a corner three that cut Indiana’s Game 3 lead to 111-109 with just over a minute to go.
One of the best parts of this pass? It wasn’t being fancy for being fancy’s sake. This was the only way Tatum was getting the ball to Horford. And it was perfectly delivered.
— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) May 26, 2024
One of my favorite plays of Tatum’s career. pic.twitter.com/tdxbsiJStU
The most important pass of Tatum's career kept the Celtics alive, and Boston ended up winning the game 114-111. He ended the contest with 36 points, 10 boards, eight assists, two blocks, and zero (!!) turnovers. Tatum’s signature performance all but shut the door on a potential Pacers series win.
The Celtics trailed by as much as 18 points in the game, and everyone helped fuel the comeback. However, Tatum served as Boston’s engine from start to finish. The three-time All-NBA First-Teamer activated point forward mode with one of his most complete playoff outings to date.
Horford’s huge three also marked his seventh of the night. The Tatum-Horford connection remains one of the most underrated in the NBA, and it made an emphatic appearance in Game 3. After the game, Horford praised Tatum for his leadership.
“I don’t know he got it there,” Horford said. “He had to improvise, and he just continued to make time after time the right play. That was an unbelievable play that he made…”
"I don't know how he got it there... that was an unbelievable play."
— Celtics on NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSCeltics) May 26, 2024
Al Horford talks behind-the-back pass from Jayson Tatum which led to his big 3-PT FG 🔥 pic.twitter.com/O1j45vSzWy
Tatum’s development into one of the most well-rounded talents in the league came full circle with his electric assist. His versatile skill set and team-first mentality allowed the Celtics to run like a well-oiled machine throughout the playoffs.
JT may own the Celtics’ single-season scoring record, but his best play of the championship run came in the form of a perfect pass.