Former NBA player Kendrick Perkins has cast doubt on Jayson Tatum’s competitive spirit, suggesting that the Boston Celtics star lacks the tenacity needed to excel. Perkins shared his candid thoughts on ESPN’s “Get Up,” prompting discussions about Tatum’s drive on the court.
Kendrick Perkins Doesn’t See ‘That Dawg’ in Jayson Tatum

Key Takeaways:
- Kendrick Perkins expressed he doesn’t see “that dawg” in Jayson Tatum.
- “That dawg” refers to a player’s innate toughness and relentless competitive drive.
- The comments were made during ESPN’s “Get Up” program.
- Jayson Tatum is a prominent player for the Boston Celtics in the NBA.
- Perkins’ remarks have ignited conversations about Tatum’s tenacity.
Kendrick Perkins Questions Jayson Tatum’s Grit
Former NBA center and current ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins has openly questioned the competitive edge of Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum. On a recent episode of ESPN’s “Get Up,” Perkins remarked that he doesn’t see “that dawg” in Tatum, implying a perceived lack of inherent toughness and relentless drive in the young star.
Perkins’ Candid Assessment on ESPN
Speaking to a national audience on “Get Up,” Perkins did not mince words about Tatum’s performance. His use of the colloquialism “that dawg” suggests he believes Tatum may be missing the aggressive mentality often seen in top-tier NBA players.
Understanding the ‘That Dawg’ Mentality
In basketball parlance, having “that dawg” refers to a player’s inner fire—a relentless determination and toughness that propels them to outperform opponents. It’s a trait highly valued in competitive sports, often distinguishing the good players from the great ones.
Implications for the Boston Celtics
As a leading figure on the Boston Celtics, Jayson Tatum’s drive and determination are crucial to the team’s success. Perkins’ comments have sparked dialogue among fans and commentators about whether Tatum possesses the necessary grit to lead his team to greater heights.
A Stir in the NBA Community
Perkins’ perspective adds to the ongoing discourse surrounding player development and performance in the NBA. While some may agree with his assessment, others see Tatum as a dedicated athlete with significant contributions to his team’s efforts.
Conclusion
Kendrick Perkins’ critique of Jayson Tatum shines a light on the expectations placed upon rising stars in the NBA. Whether Tatum lacks “that dawg” is a topic open for debate, but it undoubtedly adds another layer to the conversation about what it takes to excel at the highest levels of professional basketball.