The Boston Celtics face a critical challenge in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the New York Knicks, following a 121-113 loss on Monday that left them trailing 3-1 in the series. Compounding the situation, star forward Jayson Tatum sustained a significant injury late in Game 4.
Tatum suffered a torn right achilles tendon while attempting to recover a loose ball with under three minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. At the time, he had recorded 42 points, eight rebounds, four assists, and four steals, while hitting seven of his 16 three-point attempts in 40 minutes, perhaps his most impactful performance of the postseason.
Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0)
Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0).
© Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
The Celtics confirmed that Tatum underwent surgery on Tuesday. Although, the team added that there's no timetable for his return, an injury of this magnitude could see him miss the entire 2025-26 season.
In a post on Instagram, Tatum broke his silence after all of the support around the NBA world had been pouring in.
"Thankful for all the love and support," he wrote.
The Celtics reacted to this message with one of their own, writing, "The comeback will be greater than the setback ð"
Throughout the 2024-25 regular season, Tatum was a central figure for the Celtics, averaging 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game. His contributions helped Boston finish as the second seed in the Eastern Conference.
Tatum now joins a list of NBA stars who will miss significant time next season, with the likes of Dallas Mavericks' Kyrie Irving (ACL) and Milwaukee Bucks' Damian Lillard (achilles). At only 27 years old, Tatum is the sixth youngest player in NBA history to be diagnosed with a ruptured achilles (via NBA Injury Insider Dr. Evan Jeffries).
With Tatum sidelined, the Celtics will rely on Jaylen Brown and the remaining roster to extend the series. Game 5 is scheduled to take place at TD Garden, where Boston must secure a victory to remain in contention.