BOSTON — The Boston Celtics had to navigate Game 2 of their Eastern Conference first-round series against the Orlando Magic without their key player, Jayson Tatum, for the first time in his playoff career. The All-Star forward was sidelined due to a bone bruise on his right wrist, sustained during the closing period of the Celtics’ Game 1 victory. Despite his absence, the team managed a 109-100 win over the Magic, spearheaded by Jaylen Brown who recorded an impressive 36 points and 10 rebounds.
Just an hour before the start of the game, Tatum, a six-time All-Star, was ruled out. He had been doubtful following the injury he encountered in the latter moments of their 103-86 triumph on Sunday. Although he didn’t take part in the pregame shooting rituals usually shared with Brown, Tatum was present courtside in street clothes, sporting a black wrap around his injured wrist. He offered support from the sidelines, engaging with teammates and coaches throughout timeouts.
Tatum has been a consistent presence in the playoffs throughout his eight seasons with the Celtics, never missing a playoff game until now. This season, he was instrumental in leading the team in points, rebounds, and assists per game. Coach Joe Mazzulla, during a pregame media session, shared that Tatum had been able to participate in some on-court activities and expressed optimism about his recovery, noting Tatum’s commitment to return to play, classifying him as day-to-day.
The wrist injury occurred when Tatum attempted a dunk during the second half of Game 1 and was met with strong defensive play from Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, resulting in an awkward fall. The foul by Caldwell-Pope was escalated after video review to a flagrant foul. Despite the incident, Tatum completed the game and underwent a precautionary X-ray postgame, which showed no fractures. On Tuesday, Tatum was active during sections of the team practice, though an MRI confirmed he had a bone bruise.
The Celtics have demonstrated resilience, navigating the regular season with an 8-2 record in games without Tatum. Notably, both losses in his absence occurred against the Magic. Boston, however, had chosen to rest starters including Tatum during their final regular-season matchup with Orlando. Looking ahead, the Celtics will take their 2-0 series lead into Game 3, scheduled to unfold in Orlando on Friday.