Celtics Facing Uncertainty After Tatum’s Injury During Crucial Playoff Game
NEW YORK — Jaylen Brown stood before a room filled with reporters, reflecting on the shocking injury that struck during a pivotal game. It was as if he was looking through us, his mind racing back to when he first teamed up with Jayson Tatum in 2017, forming a dynamic duo that shaped the Boston Celtics’ identity.
This partnership had led the Celtics to their long-awaited 18th NBA championship and set them up to contend for more in the years to come. However, in sports, even the most promising plans can take an unexpected turn.
“It’s tough,” Brown stated after his team’s game against the New York Knicks ended in a 121-113 defeat during Game 4 of the 2025 Eastern Conference semifinals. “There’s not really a lot to say.”
Brown’s words signaled the gravity of the situation. He had yet to speak with Tatum, who exited the game with just over three minutes remaining after suffering a non-contact injury that alarmed fans and peers alike. Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla could only offer minimal details about Tatum’s condition.
“I know it’s a lower body injury,” Mazzulla said. “He’s going to get an MRI tomorrow. Obviously, we’re concerned about his health.”
The Celtics were in a tough spot late in the fourth quarter, as they struggled to keep pace with the Knicks. Tatum, who was having an outstanding game with 42 points, was involved in a scramble for a loose ball when he suddenly fell to the court, clutching his ankle.
“I thought he just rolled his ankle,” noted Knicks’ player Jalen Brunson. “You never want to see a player like that go down in pain.”
As the crowd erupted in cheers for the Knicks’ scoring play, Tatum remained grounded, needing medical assistance to leave the court. The sight of Tatum, a six-time All-Star, being carried off was unsettling for his teammates and fans alike.
“It’s tough to watch a guy like him get carried off,” Mazzulla expressed. The question on everyone’s mind was how long Tatum might be sidelined, casting a shadow over the series and the future of the franchise.
Brown shared his shock after the game. “I felt like there wasn’t a lot to say.” With Tatum out of action and his team trailing in the series, the pressure was mounting.
Three minutes after Tatum’s departure, the Celtics found themselves on the brink of elimination, needing a win to keep their championship hopes alive. “The loss is the loss,” said Al Horford, reflecting on the plight. “More importantly, I’m concerned for Jayson. He’s essential to our team.”
Brown’s teammate Derrick White echoed those sentiments, sharing how tough it was to see Tatum go down.
Despite Tatum’s absence, the Celtics still had significant talent on their roster. They had previously performed well without him, boasting a 9-2 record this season in such situations. Players like Kristaps Porziņģis stressed that team chemistry and skill could carry them through challenging moments.
“Even without JT, we have shown that we can play good basketball,” Porziņģis said. The challenge, however, was replacing Tatum’s impact, as he led the team in critical stats during the playoffs—minutes, points, rebounds, assists, and steals.
In the bigger picture, Tatum’s unique abilities played an essential role in Boston’s performance. The team had struggled offensively in Game 4 once he was sidelined, highlighting his significance.
“Obviously, there’s no replacing this guy,” Porziņģis commented on the vacuum left by Tatum’s injury.
Now, with emotions running high, the road ahead for the Celtics looked steep. Horford recognized the uphill battle but insisted on focusing on the next game. “We have to rally together,” he stated, emphasizing the need for the team to come together in this challenging time.
Mazzulla assured that the team would be prepared, trusting in their character and resilience. “They’ll be ready. We need to take it one game at a time.”
The team now faced the daunting task of navigating the playoffs without their leader. As they prepared for their next match, they recognized the emotional toll this situation had taken.
“It’s hard to see him go down,” Porziņģis said. While the team grappled with their feelings, they also understood the necessity of pressing on.
The Celtics still had a chance to extend their playoff run, yet the situation was uncertain. Should Tatum’s injury be severe, it could drastically shift their trajectory.
“I’ve got no words right now,” Brown shared, echoing the sentiments of many in the organization. “But we still have basketball to play.” As they looked forward, the team remained hopeful, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
