With the Celtics trailing 3-1 in the series following a 121-113 loss at Madison Square Garden, Tatum’s injury threatens to derail Boston’s quest for back-to-back NBA championships and puts the defending champs on the precipice of elimination.

With under three minutes remaining in a tightly contested Game 4, Tatum dove for a loose ball in a non-contact play but suddenly collapsed, grabbing his right lower leg in visible pain. Unable to put weight on the leg, he was helped off the court and taken away in a wheelchair, leaving Celtics fans and teammates stunned.

The injury came at a critical juncture as the Celtics were attempting to mount a comeback against a surging Knicks squad. Without their best player, Boston’s hopes of evening the series took a major hit, and the Knicks capitalized to take a commanding 3-1 lead.

The severity of Jayson Tatum’s injury

Early reports and expert analysis suggest that Tatum may have suffered a torn Achilles tendon or a similarly severe lower leg injury. The way his foot gave out and his immediate reaction are signs of an Achilles rupture, one of the most serious injuries a basketball player can face. 

If confirmed by an MRI on Tuesday, Tatum’s recovery timeline could range from nine to 12 months, effectively ending his 2024-25 season and putting his availability for the start of next season in serious doubt, if he even recovers for any of it at all.

Boston’s medical staff and coaching team are awaiting the MRI results, but the initial prognosis has already sent shockwaves through the NBA. Losing a player of Tatum’s caliber at this stage of the playoffs is a monumental setback for any team.

Could it mean a Celtics’ elimination?

Jayson Tatum is Boston’s leading scorer and has an ability to create shots, lead the offense, and anchor the defense has been central to the Celtics’ success. Without him, Boston faces an uphill battle to extend the series and keep their championship hopes alive.

Game 5 at TD Garden becomes a must-win for the Celtics, who will rally around the hope that their depth and experience can compensate for the loss of their superstar.

Beyond this series, Tatum’s injury raises questions about the Celtics’ immediate future. It not only threatens their current playoff run but also casts uncertainty over their ability to defend their NBA title.