The never-ending (it seems) “which Jay is better” see-saw joyride continues to go up and down. Jayson gets the deserved all-star selection, while Jaylen gets 2 player of the week honors (one last week). The eye test leaves me with the impression that 2 years from now the C’s could have 2 pretty unstoppable offensive forces. Both can drive, create space in the lane, stop, stutter and go, hit the 3, hit clutch shots. Overall, Jayson is taller and more reliable from distance and at the rim. But it’s pretty close. The strange thing I am thinking lately is that Jayson seems to be becoming the more disruptive defensive player. I know it’s been conventional wisdom to say that Jaylen is the defensive guy, but I think Jayson may be better — perhaps not as versatile, but his arms seem to create an enormous amount of mayhem for opponents. I think it’s when Jayson steps it up defensively that the C’s have looked ultra-elite on defense.
The other stat: Jayson isn’t 22 till March.
I think Jaylen has been the more consistent offense player overall this year. However, I definitely agree Jayson has been a better defender. Jaylen seems to have stagnated on D this year, with no improvements to his rather mediocre off-ball defense, even though his on-ball defense remains pretty good.
I like Tatum's defense, especially his good improving instincts, long arms, presence and help d.
However, his frame, even with wide shoulders of his is small and he can't be a roadblock (hydrant) like Smart or even Brown can be.
Guys put their shoulders in Tatum's chest and they just go through him, toward the rim.
It has nothing to do with his knowledge and his willingness to fight defensively, it is just physics. He is a lightweight.
Toughest guys in the league to matchup are strong skillful wings like Kawhi, LBJ, Durant, Jimmy etc.
Jaylen has a chance to check them 1-on-1 and offer some resistance, Jaylen has no chance.
IMO, that is the biggest difference between our Jay's defensively.