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The Boston Celtics are now one game away from being eliminated from the 2025 NBA Playoffs. Their 121-113 loss to the New York Knicks in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals has left fans worried — not just about the scoreboard, but more about the health of their star player, Jayson Tatum.
Tatum Goes Down with Non-Contact Leg Injury
With just under three minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, Tatum collapsed to the floor after his right leg gave out during a non-contact play. The Celtics had just lost possession, and as Tatum lunged for a loose ball, his leg appeared to buckle.
He remained on the ground, clearly in pain, before being carried off the court by trainers. He was later taken into the locker room in a wheelchair.
Locker Room Falls Silent After Loss
The atmosphere in the Celtics’ locker room after the game was extremely quiet and tense.
"I'm really just thinking about Jayson right now," said Celtics veteran Al Horford. "Basketball is secondary at this moment. We just hope he's okay."
MRI Scheduled as Team Awaits Update
Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla confirmed that Tatum would undergo an MRI on Tuesday, but no official diagnosis has been announced yet.
Teammate Jaylen Brown could only respond with shock, saying, "I’ve got no words right now."
Tatum's Standout Performance Before Injury
Before the injury, Tatum was having one of the best games of his playoff career. He scored 42 points, shooting 16-of-28 from the field. Despite his efforts, the Celtics once again blew a double-digit lead — they were ahead by 14 points before the Knicks staged a second-half comeback.
Celtics Down 3-1 in the Series
This loss puts Boston at a 3-1 series deficit, meaning they must now win three straight games to advance — likely without their best player.
The Celtics have made the Eastern Conference Finals in each of the last three years. But that streak is now at serious risk.
Porzingis: “We Have to Keep Fighting”
Celtics big man Kristaps Porzingis acknowledged the emotional impact of the injury but emphasized the need to move forward.
“These moments are hard. We all saw how serious it looked. But we have to keep fighting. That’s what we owe to Jayson and to our fans.”
Knicks Show Support for Tatum
Despite being on the winning side, the Knicks were also concerned for Tatum. Forward Karl-Anthony Towns, who once suffered a similar calf injury, expressed his support.
“I know what that pain feels like,” said Towns. “I just prayed for him. He’s a superstar in this league, and we all want to see him healthy and back on the court.”
Game 5: Must-Win Situation for Boston
The Celtics will return home for Game 5 on Wednesday night. With their season hanging in the balance, they will try to stay alive in the playoffs — possibly without the player who has carried them all season.
