Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum suffered a significant lower leg injury during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the New York Knicks, casting doubt on his availability for the remainder of the series.
Late in the fourth quarter of the Celtics’ 121-113 loss at Madison Square Garden, Tatum collapsed while chasing a loose ball, clutching his right leg in visible pain. He was assisted off the court and later seen in a wheelchair, prompting concerns about a potential Achilles injury.
Despite the injury, Tatum delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 42 points along with eight rebounds, four assists, four steals, and two blocks. However, his exit proved pivotal as the Knicks capitalized on the momentum shift, with OG Anunoby’s decisive dunk sealing the victory.
The Celtics now trail 3-1 in the best-of-seven series, with Game 5 scheduled for Wednesday in Boston. No team has overcome a 3-1 deficit in the NBA Playoffs in the past five years, making Tatum’s potential absence even more critical.
Head coach Joe Mazzulla confirmed that Tatum would undergo an MRI to assess the extent of the injury. The basketball community has rallied around Tatum, with players like LeBron James sending messages of support.
As the Celtics face elimination, the team’s resilience will be tested in the absence of their leading scorer and emotional leader.
