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Celtics Face Crisis as Jayson Tatum Suffers Leg Injury in Playoff Showdown

NBA access_alarms2025-05-13 13:27:00 visibility5 text_decrease title text_increase

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Star Forward Collapses in Crucial Game 4

The Boston Celtics' playoff campaign took a devastating turn Monday night when All-Star Jayson Tatum exited Game 4 against the New York Knicks with a serious leg injury. The 26-year-old forward dropped to the court clutching his right leg during the final minutes of the fourth quarter, ultimately requiring wheelchair assistance to leave the arena.

Injury Details Emerge

Medical staff observed Tatum experiencing sudden leg instability during a loose ball pursuit, with preliminary reports suggesting potential Achilles tendon involvement. Team physician Dr. Jesse Morse noted the injury's non-contact nature and Tatum's immediate weight-bearing difficulty as concerning indicators.

Celtics' Jayson Tatum Suffers Non-Contact Lower Leg Injury, Team Faces Elimination Scare

Immediate Aftermath

Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla confirmed Tatum will undergo MRI testing Tuesday morning. "When Jayson stays down, you know it's serious," Mazzulla told reporters. "We're preparing for multiple scenarios but hoping for positive news."

Statistical Impact

Tatum's injury overshadowed his dominant 42-point performance featuring: - 57% field goal accuracy - 7 three-pointers - 8 rebounds - 4 steals

Series Implications

New York seized the 3-1 series advantage with a 121-113 victory, forcing Boston into must-win territory for Wednesday's Game 5. The Celtics now face these critical challenges: - Potential loss of primary scorer (Tatum averages 27.1 PPG) - Increased pressure on Jaylen Brown - Need for bench players to step up

Medical Perspective

Orthopedic specialist Dr. Laura Chen explained: "Non-contact injuries often indicate structural damage. The Achilles mechanism matches Tatum's reaction, but we need imaging confirmation before speculating."

Team Response

Teammate Jaylen Brown acknowledged the emotional toll: "We're all shaken, but championship teams adapt. Our depth will be tested like never before."

Looking Ahead

Boston's survival now depends on: - Tatum's MRI results - Derrick White maintaining defensive intensity - Kristaps Porziņģis expanding his offensive role - Home crowd energy at TD Garden

Tipoff for the elimination game is set for 7 PM ET Wednesday, with the winner advancing to face either Philadelphia or Brooklyn in the Conference Finals.