Tatum’s Injury Stuns Celtics in Game 4 Collapse
The Boston Celtics, reigning NBA champions, find themselves on the verge of elimination after falling 121-113 to the New York Knicks in Game 4 of the NBA playoffs. But the loss wasn’t the only blow. All eyes turned to Jayson Tatum, who had to be carried off the court late in the fourth quarter with a noncontact lower leg injury.
With just under three minutes remaining, Tatum’s right leg gave out while chasing a loose ball. He stayed down, covering his face with a towel in pain. Trainers helped him off, and he was later seen being wheeled into the locker room.
Silent Locker Room and Grim Outlook
The Celtics locker room at Madison Square Garden was silent postgame. Al Horford summed up the team’s mood best:
“I’m concerned about Jayson. That’s the most important to me… the game stuff, we’ll address it.”
Coach Joe Mazzulla confirmed that Tatum will undergo an MRI on Tuesday. There was no official diagnosis as of Monday night.
Jaylen Brown: ‘No Words Right Now’
Jaylen Brown, visibly shaken, said:
“I’ve got no words right now.”
Brown’s reaction echoed a franchise in shock. Tatum had delivered 42 points on 16-for-28 shooting before the injury. His leadership and consistency had made him the Celtics’ cornerstone during their recent playoff runs.
Knicks Take Commanding 3-1 Series Lead
Led by Jalen Brunson, who continues to impress this postseason, the Knicks erased a 14-point deficit to win Game 4. Brunson’s explosive offense, paired with gritty defense from Josh Hart and Mikal Bridges, has put New York one game from reaching the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years.
Brunson said postgame:
“We’re up 3-1, but there’s nothing to celebrate yet. We stay focused.”
Porzingis: ‘We Have to Keep Playing’
Kristaps Porzingis emphasized that while the team is hurting, they have to move forward:
“We just have to keep playing. It’s hard, but this is part of the sport.”
The Celtics have now lost three straight games where they led by double digits, adding to the frustration and disbelief.
Respect from Both Sides
Knicks star Karl-Anthony Towns, who’s battled a similar calf injury, offered his prayers:
“I prayed to my mother and to God… I hope we see [Tatum] back soon.”
This mutual respect between competitors shows the human side of playoff basketball.
Looking Ahead to Game 5 in Boston
Game 5 tips off Wednesday night in Boston. Without Tatum, the Celtics will rely heavily on Jaylen Brown, Al Horford, and possibly bigger roles for bench players. Coach Joe Mazzulla faces the biggest test of his tenure yet.
Conclusion
Jayson Tatum’s injury casts a long shadow over Boston’s playoff hopes. As the team returns home, the question isn’t just whether they can survive Game 5 — it’s whether their leader will play again this season.
Source: ESPN