Another year, another historic Lakers-Celtics match in the books. Since the rivalry first became the heartbeat of the league, it has been a regular fixture for Christmas Day. While any game between the two franchise leaders in Championships is a sight to behold, Christmas Day games have that extra gravitas. This time, it was the Boston Celtics pulling away with the win. But it was a curious detail in Jayson Tatum‘s choice of accessory that became the conversation of the night.

Throughout the game, Boston was in firm control. Even though the Los Angeles Lakers, spearheaded by Anthony Davis, would make runs, the game was never out of the Celtics’ reach. On the other hand, every time the men in green made their mark, the dams would break. Despite a Kobe Bryant tribute night in play, LA could not muster that Mamba Mentality.

Instead, it was a purple band bearing 24 on JT’s arm that became a fitting tribute. “Tatum was rockin’ the Kobe armband in the Celtics’ Christmas W in LA,” NBA on ESPN would write on their Twitter page.

Whether it was the play style or the attitude, Jayson was in full Mamba emulation mode. With his team pulling away with the win, he was able to further establish himself as The Kobe disciple. However, fans, especially the Lakers faithful weren’t fully on board with his tribute.

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While initially wary of the superstar’s explosion, his band left the fans with a bitter taste in their mouth. As a result, they were ready to attack the Bean Town’s hero.

Fans rain down on Jayson Tatum’s parade in honoring Kobe Bryant

Whether it was the sour taste of defeat or the missed opportunity at drafting him, the Lakers fanbase wasn’t on board with Tatum. Instead, calls for “He’s gotta relax”, “Let the man rest” and “We get it man” made clear their frustration with the 26-year-old.

Others, however, were far more direct. One fan went straight for the kill, not liking the constant references to Bryant. “He needs to quit this Kobe obsession.” 

Another had a similar mindset. His choice of words was also rather counter-productive. After leading his team to a dominant victory over LA, the commenter would claim “loser behavior”, despite Tatum portraying anything but.

With Boston continuing its run of dominance atop the league and the East, is this the year they finally break through? Can the Js finally achieve the ultimate goal?

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