The Boston Celtics host the New York Knicks in Game 5 of the second round of their playoff series.
The Celtics are currently down 3-1 in the series, and another defeat could send them home packing. It's an important game for Joe Mazzulla's side. However, they are without superstar forward Jayson Tatum.
Tatum suffered a devastating injury in Game 4 loss against the Knicks. He suffered a ruptured Achilles in the fourth quarter of the game.
Tatum had to be lifted off his feet and carried off the court. Since his 2017 addition to the team, Tatum has been crucial for the Celtics.
The Duke product has undergone surgery after the recent injury. His participation is not only doubtful for the rest of the playoffs, but also for next season, which is a massive worry for Mazzulla and co.
For now, the Celtics have to focus on winning Game 5 against the Knicks or their campaign comes to an end.
For tonight's match, Al Horford is starting as the forward in place of the injured Tatum.
"Al Horford will start tonight in place of Jayson Tatum," Noa Dalzell shared on X.
Horford has played a total of 135 minutes in the previous four games of the series against the Knicks.
Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) dunks the ball in the second half during game four of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) dunks the ball in the second half during game four of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Speaking after Tatum's injury in Game 4, Horford said in the locker room, "I mean, at this point, I'm concerned about Jayson. That's the most important to me. The game stuff, we'll address it. But I'm just hoping that he's OK."
Achilles is one of the worst injuries an NBA player can suffer, and it takes more than a year for most to come back to action.
However, players like Kobe Bryant and Kevin Durant have previously suffered the same injury and returned. Fans will hope Tatum can do the same.
He posted a surgery update on Instagram, writing, "Thankful for all the love and support."