Paul Pierce offers to tutor Jayson Tatum

There have long been comparisons between Jayson Tatum and Paul Pierce (which I like a lot better than say comparisons to Carmelo Anthony). Pierce himself has acknowledged the similarities in their games. Now it seems like Pierce is interested in helping Tatum reach new levels.

Per Steve Bulpett:

The Celtic coaches have worked with Tatum on his game, and it’s hard to argue with the overall results so far, but Pierce had a lot of driving and low post trips in his bag — enough to make him the franchise leader in career free throws made and attempted, as well as the single season record holder in both categories.

And he’s willing to share his knowledge with Tatum.

“I haven’t talked to Danny about it yet,” Pierce said. “Me and Kevin (Garnett) talked about it when he went down there, but that’s something I would love to do. I probably will talk to Danny.”

Call me a Celtics homer, but I like the idea of this potential workout pairing better than the sessions Tatum spent with Kobe Bryant. Don’t get me wrong, there are things a young player can pull from every former NBA great. But there was something about Pierce’s game, in particular towards the end of his career, where he just had a great balance of skills.

Pierce knew when to push and when to pull back. How to attack the basket and how to take advantage of the three. And like Tatum, he was skilled enough at the mid-range game to utilize it to his advantage.

In Bulpett’s piece, Pierce specifically talks about Tatum attacking the paint and getting to the line to increase his productivity.

Yes, I want The Truth to spend as much time with Jayson Tatum as possible. I need that like I need air and water.