Tatum’s Injury Shocks Celtics Fans
The Jayson Tatum injury has cast a dark shadow over the Boston Celtics’ playoff hopes. During Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals on May 12, 2025, Tatum suffered a non-contact lower-leg injury in the fourth quarter against the New York Knicks. He collapsed in pain after lunging for a loose ball, unable to bear weight on his right leg.
Tatum was carried off the court and later seen in a wheelchair, as reported by CBS Sports. Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla confirmed a lower-body injury, with an MRI scheduled for today, May 13. Speculation on X points to a possible Achilles tear, with users citing the non-contact nature and Tatum’s reaction as concerning signs.
Game 4 Recap: Knicks Take 3-1 Lead
The Knicks vs Celtics Game 4 ended with a 121-113 victory for New York, giving them a commanding 3-1 series lead. The Knicks erased a 14-point third-quarter deficit, led by Jalen Brunson’s 39 points and 12 assists. Mikal Bridges added 23 points, with 12 in the fourth, while Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 23 points and 12 rebounds.
Tatum led the Celtics with 42 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists before his injury. Jaylen Brown scored 20 points with 7 rebounds, and Derrick White added 23 points, including six 3-pointers. Despite the loss, the Jayson Tatum injury overshadows the game, leaving Boston’s season in jeopardy.
Player Stats from Celtics vs. Knicks Game 4
Here’s a breakdown of key Boston Celtics vs Knicks match player stats from Game 4:
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Jalen Brunson (Knicks): 39 points, 12 assists, 3 rebounds
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Mikal Bridges (Knicks): 23 points, 2 assists, 2 rebounds
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Karl-Anthony Towns (Knicks): 23 points, 12 rebounds
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OG Anunoby (Knicks): 20 points
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Jayson Tatum (Celtics): 42 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists
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Jaylen Brown (Celtics): 20 points, 7 rebounds
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Derrick White (Celtics): 23 points, 6 3-pointers
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Payton Pritchard (Celtics): 12 points off the bench
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Al Horford (Celtics): Limited impact, stats unavailable
The Knicks outscored Boston by 14 points in the third quarter, flipping the game in their favor at Madison Square Garden.
Implications for Game 5 and Beyond
The Jayson Tatum injury comes at a critical moment, with Game 5 set for May 14 in Boston. Historically, teams with a 3-1 lead win over 95% of NBA playoff series, per TIME. Without Tatum, the Celtics face an uphill battle against a Knicks team riding high after their first home win of the series.
Tatum’s potential absence could reshape the Eastern Conference. As Boston’s leading scorer at 26.8 points per game, his injury might force a rebuild, with analysts on X speculating trades involving Jaylen Brown. A torn Achilles, as feared by some, could sideline Tatum for the 2025-26 season, per Sportskeeda.
Fan and Player Reactions
The Jayson Tatum injury has sparked widespread concern. NBA stars like LeBron James and Isaiah Thomas sent prayers on X, reflecting the gravity of the situation. Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla called it “tough to watch,” while Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau expressed hope for a minor injury, per TIME.
Fans on X are anxious, with some fearing an Achilles tear after seeing Tatum in a wheelchair. Others praised his 42-point effort, calling it a heroic performance cut short. The basketball world awaits the MRI results, which will determine Tatum’s future and the Celtics’ playoff fate.
What’s Next for the Celtics?
The Celtics vs Knicks Game 5 is a must-win for Boston. Without Tatum, players like Jaylen Brown and Derrick White will need to step up. The Knicks, led by Brunson, Bridges, and Towns, are poised to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2000. Their last championship was in 1973, adding to the stakes.
The Jayson Tatum injury could mark a turning point for both teams. Will the Celtics rally, or will the Knicks seize their chance?
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