Jayson Tatum was surprised by the decision to expel him from the Boston Celtics’ victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday, alleging officials were “ready” to eject him.

Tatum was tossed with two seconds remaining in the third quarter after a swinging arm caught Robert Covington in the face near the sideline.

After the penalty was raised to a flagrant one, the four-time All-Star argued with referee Nick Buchert and interrupted the officials’ huddle, earning him his second technical foul of the game.

Following Tatum’s departure, the Sixers took the lead thanks to a sequence of Covington free throws, but the Celtics rallied for their third straight victory, with Al Horford and Jaylen Brown each scoring 20 points.

When completing post-game media obligations, Tatum was clearly taken aback by the decision to eject him, saying of the officials, “They were ready to throw me out.” Did I swear? I didn’t do it. I was taken aback. 

“‘Get your money’s worth,’ they always say. You’ll have to pay a fine.’ I most emphatically did not get my money’s worth!

“I was completely taken aback. You were all present when it happened. You might not remember what I said, but I guess it doesn’t matter at this point. That does not sit well with me. 

“One of the assistant coaches was with me, and he disagrees.” But what does it actually matter? When they kick you out, they really mean it.

“Even if I was correct, they could go back and discuss it after the game.” We don’t get that game back, and I don’t get that moment back. 

“It’s unfortunate, but as I previously stated, I can’t change what happened; I can only change how players compete and affect the game.” 

“The referees have an impact on the game.” They evicted me, and right or wrong, it’s their word vs ours. I’ll never get that time back.”

Tatum finished the game with 21 points, seven rebounds, and four assists in 27 minutes. Despite his dismissal, the Sixers struggled without reigning MVP Joel Embiid and guard Tyrese Maxey, allowing Boston to climb to a league-best 15-4 record. 

“I actually like it, I think some of that is important,” Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla said of Tatum’s struggle.

“Of course, you don’t want it to get in the way of your winning.” But I believe that kind of intensity and concern… That’s something I’d rather see than nothing at all.”

The Celtics will aim to extend their winning run to four games when they travel to Indiana to face the Pacers on Monday, followed by back-to-back games against the Cleveland Cavaliers the following week.