NBA Notes: Celtics, Jayson Tatum, Knicks, Jordan Clarkson, Raptors

Celtics

Celtics forward Jayson Tatum logged a season-high 35 minutes — including the entire fourth quarter — in Wednesday’s win over Oklahoma City, notes Brian Robb of MassLive.

Tatum, who is working his way back from a torn Achilles, finished with 19 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists in his ninth appearance of the season.

“It definitely feels different,” Tatum said. “Sometimes the best moments are when I don’t have a chance to think … I’ve just got to react.”

He added that game reps are helping him regain rhythm.

“These are things you can’t simulate in workouts,” Tatum said. “Each game I kind of surprise myself with encouraging things.”

Knicks

Knicks guard Jordan Clarkson has worked his way back into the rotation after a prolonged stretch of DNPs, per Steve Popper of Newsday.

Clarkson said the adjustment period was necessary.

“I know everybody wanted it to click immediately,” he said. “But I’ve got to feel out a new coach, new system … I’m getting a chance to watch the D-N-P’s and learn.”

He has provided scoring, playmaking, and improved defense over the past couple weeks.

Raptors

Raptors wing Ja’Kobe Walter is emerging as a key contributor down the stretch, according to Eric Koreen of The Athletic.

Walter is shooting 48.6 percent from three-point range in 17 games since the All-Star break while making an impact defensively.

“He’s shooting at an insane rate,” forward RJ Barrett said. “But defensively, the things he’s doing every single night … are important.”