Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum was carried off the court with a right leg injury in Game 4 vs. Knicks and will undergo an MRI to determine the extent of the damage.
Entering Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on May 12, 2025, the Boston Celtics held a slim 2–1 series lead over the New York Knicks. Jayson Tatum had already been exceptional earlier in the series, averaging over 35 points per game and leading Boston’s offense with his dynamic scoring and playmaking abilities.
The Incident Jayson Tatum
With just 2:58 remaining in a tightly contested contest at Madison Square Garden, Tatum lunged for a loose ball following a turnover by teammate Jaylen Brown. In a non-contact play, his right leg collapsed beneath him, causing him to fall hard to the floor in visible pain. Teammates and medical staff rushed to assist; Tatum was unable to bear weight on the affected limb and was quickly carried off the court by athletic trainers, later being placed in a wheelchair.
Performance Before the Injury
Despite the grim ending, Tatum delivered an All-Star performance:
- 42 points on 16-for-28 shooting
- 8 rebounds
- 4 assists, 4 steals, 2 blocks
- 7 three-pointers
His effort kept Boston within striking distance until the final minutes, underscoring his importance to the team’s title defense.
Injury Details and MRI Plans
Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla described the setback as a “lower-body injury” and confirmed that Tatum would undergo an MRI on Tuesday, May 13, to determine whether the damage involves the ankle, Achilles tendon, or other ligament structures. The timing of the scan is critical, as Boston faces Game 5 at TD Garden on Wednesday, where the Knicks can clinch the series with another victory.
Team and League Reaction
A somber mood enveloped the Celtics locker room. Jaylen Brown admitted, “I’ve got no words right now,” reflecting the uncertainty surrounding the franchise’s cornerstone player. Even opposing players showed solidarity: Knicks’ Karl-Anthony Towns, who recovered from a similar lower-leg injury, offered his support and prayers for a swift recovery.
Potential Impact
Losing Tatum—even briefly—would represent a seismic shift for Boston’s championship aspirations. His scoring, leadership, and two-way impact have been instrumental in the team’s success. Should the MRI reveal a significant sprain or tendon damage, Tatum could miss the remainder of the series or beyond, placing increased pressure on role players like Derrick White and Jrue Holiday to fill the void .
Next Steps
- MRI Results (May 13): The Celtics will provide an update following the imaging.
- Game 5 Preparation: Boston must adjust rotations and strategies in anticipation of Tatum’s availability.
- Long-Term Outlook: Depending on the diagnosis, the franchise may need to consider rehabilitation timelines and roster moves ahead of potential conference finals action.
Authoritative Sources
- Reuters: “Celtics star Jayson Tatum injured, headed for MRI”
- Associated Press (CBS News): “Jayson Tatum carried off floor with right leg injury and Celtics star will have MRI”
- ESPN: “Celtics’ Jayson Tatum carried off in Game 4 with right-leg injury”
A high-resolution shot capturing the moment Tatum, face obscured by a towel, is gently lifted by Celtics trainers from the MSG court, his right leg immobilized. The background shows concerned teammates and fans rising to their feet, with the scoreboard reading “121-113” and the game clock at “2:58” to underscore the dramatic timing of the injury.