NEW YORK โ Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics is known for his resilience, often bouncing back quickly from falls, such as when he injured his wrist in the first round of the playoffs. However, during the closing minutes of Game 4 in the Eastern Conference semifinals, it was evident that his lower right leg injury was severe as he was unable to rise and needed assistance off the court. Further diagnosis awaits testing scheduled for Tuesday.
โHeโs the type of guy who immediately gets up,โ shared Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla. โWhen he didnโt, we knew something was off, and weโll get the full details tomorrow. Watching him get carried was tough.โ Tatum fell after his leg gave way while he attempted to recover a loose ball, resulting in him clutching his leg above the ankle in pain without any contact causing the injury.
The New York Knicks secured a 121-113 victory, leading the series 3-1. The Celtics must now triumph in Boston on Wednesday to continue their pursuit of another NBA title. An MRI on Tuesday will provide more clarity on Tatumโs condition.
โTonight is difficult,โ admitted the Celticsโ Jaylen Brown. โWeโre all at a loss for words, not just because of the loss but also due to our concern for JT. However, weโll rally and face whatever comes next.โ Before his injury, Tatum had scored 42 points, his highest in this playoff series. He had to be transported from the court via wheelchair, visibly distraught.
Having claimed his first NBA championship last season, leading Boston to its 18th title, Tatum is no stranger to pressure or injury. Earlier in the playoffs, he experienced a setback against Orlando, injuring his wrist but remaining in the game, though he missed Game 2, marking the first playoff game heโd ever sat out. The Celtics prevailed in that match without him.
With a potential absence looming again, the Celtics face a formidable challenge. โItโs hard to witness, but injuries are part of the game,โ said Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis. โWe sympathize with him, but we must look forward. Tatum wouldnโt want us dwelling in sadness. We need to give our all and accept whatever outcome follows.โ