Celtics Face Uncertainty After Tatum Injury in Game 4 Loss to Knicks
NEW YORK — The atmosphere was heavy in the Boston Celtics’ locker room following their 121-113 defeat to the New York Knicks in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Monday night. The loss marked Boston’s third consecutive defeat in the series, leaving them down 3-1. However, the concern extended beyond the scoreboard as All-Star Jayson Tatum exited the game in the fourth quarter due to a troubling right leg injury.
“It looked like he got hurt there; he stayed on the ground for a while,” said Kristaps Porzingis, expressing alarm over his teammate’s condition. Tatum sustained the injury while chasing a loose ball, and teammates were unable to check on him immediately. “It’s probably an overwhelming moment right now,” Porzingis added.
Prior to Tatum’s injury, the Celtics had been trailing by nine points, struggling against a strong second-half push from the Knicks. Porzingis acknowledged the severity of the situation but urged his teammates to rally together. “We’re grown men. It’s a part of this sport and we feel for him, but we have to move forward,” he stated, emphasizing the need for resilience in the face of adversity.
With the series shifting back to Boston for Game 5, the Celtics’ chances hinge on Tatum’s health, which remains uncertain. Porzingis remains optimistic, saying, “We have the talent. Even without JT, we can still play really good basketball.” He called for the team to regroup, recognizing the challenges ahead while stressing the importance of continuing to compete, regardless of their circumstances.
As the Celtics await further news on Tatum’s injury, the focus shifts to their crucial upcoming game on Wednesday night, where they will strive to extend their playoff journey.
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