Tatum’s Injury Overshadows Celtics Collapse
The Boston Celtics arrived at Madison Square Garden needing a win to stay in control of their postseason hopes. Instead, they left with a 121-113 loss to the New York Knicks, a 3-1 series deficit — and a frightening injury to their star player, Jayson Tatum.
With under three minutes to go in the fourth quarter, Tatum collapsed while chasing a loose ball, clutching his lower leg in visible pain. The Knicks scored on the other end, and Tatum had to be wheeled to the locker room.
“I’m concerned about Jayson. That’s the most important thing to me,” said Al Horford. “The game stuff, we’ll address it. But I’m just hoping that he’s OK.”
MRI on Tuesday, Uncertainty Looms
No immediate update was provided postgame. Head coach Joe Mazzulla confirmed Tatum will undergo an MRI on Tuesday. The Celtics — who entered the playoffs as heavy title favorites — are now staring at elimination with their best player’s status in limbo.
Jaylen Brown and Kristaps Porzingis echoed the concern, both admitting the team was emotionally shaken.
“This is part of the sport,” Porzingis said. “It’s tough, and it’s hard to accept the truth.”
Tatum had been electric before the injury, scoring 42 points on 16-of-28 shooting. He had never missed a playoff game before this postseason.
Knicks Rally Again to Take Commanding Lead
Boston once again built a double-digit lead — this time up by 14 — only to watch it disappear in the second half. It’s the third time in four games the Celtics lost a game they once led by double digits.
The Knicks now lead the series 3-1, and are one win away from their first Eastern Conference finals appearance since 2000.
“I’ve been in that situation before,” said Karl-Anthony Towns, who offered Tatum a prayer after the injury. “I hope it’s a quick, painless process and we see him back soon.”
Game 5: All or Nothing in Boston
Game 5 is set for Wednesday night at TD Garden. Whether Tatum plays or not, Boston is on the brink — and the pressure is higher than it’s been all season.
“Just very tough for our group altogether,” Horford said. “Let’s see what happens.”
A team that looked built for a title run now finds itself needing a miracle to survive.
