The Boston Celtics are typically accustomed to seeing Jayson Tatum return to his feet after a fall, a norm he maintained until a severe wrist injury occurred during the first playoffs match.

However, Tatum’s inability to rise during the final moments of Game 4 in the Eastern Conference semifinals, necessitating his being carried off the court, highlighted the grave nature of his lower leg injury—preliminary tests are scheduled for Tuesday.

“He’s the type of guy, he gets right up,” said Celtics coach Joes Mazzulla. “So he didn’t and we’ll know tomorrow exactly what it is. But yeah, I mean it’s tough to watch a guy like him get carried like that.”

Translation: “He is the type of player who normally gets up immediately. His inability to do so is concerning, and we will know more tomorrow. Seeing him carried off is difficult.”

The Celtics faltered with roughly three minutes remaining, losing possession of the ball. As Tatum lunged for a loose ball, his leg collapsed, and he was seen burying his face in a towel, clearly in distress while grasping his leg above the ankle due to a non-contact injury.

The New York Knicks triumphed 121-113, extending their series lead to 3-1. The Celtics face the prospect of needing a win in the upcoming match on Wednesday in Boston to keep their title hopes alive.

Mazzulla confirmed that Tatum will have an MRI exam on Tuesday.

“Tonight is tough,” said Jaylen Brown of the Celtics. “Everyone seems a bit lost for words after this loss, especially considering the worry over JT. But we will regain our resolve tomorrow and press onward.”

Translation: “This is a challenging night for us, and there’s a profound concern for JT’s condition. We will recover mentally and continue our efforts tomorrow.”

Prior to the injury, Tatum scored 42 points, his playoff peak thus far, while he covered his face in his hands when wheeled down a tunnel post-game.

As an eight-season veteran, Tatum secured his first NBA championship last year, leading Boston to their 18th title. Concern has poured in from both teammates and rivals regarding his situation, recalling a previous incident in Game 1 against Orlando, where he sustained a wrist injury after being fouled during a dunk.

Players reflected on his resilience and the competitive nature of the sport:

“It’s tough to see, but injuries are part of the sport,” remarked Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis. “We need to look forward and do our best; he wouldn’t want us feeling down and playing poorly.”

Translation: “Observing such injuries is hard, yet they are a natural part of our game. We must keep progressing and giving our utmost effort, as he wouldn’t appreciate us being disheartened and not performing well.”

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