Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum spoke for the first time since his Achilles injury in Game 4 against the New York Knicks in the NBA Playoffs. During the fourth quarter of Game 4, Tatum suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon while attempting to chase a loose ball. The injury has significant implications for his 2025-26 NBA season. Tatum underwent successful surgery to repair the tear and has since posted a hospital bed photo along with a thumbs-up on Instagram, expressing gratitude for the support he has received from fans and teammates. The Celtics have also shared a screenshot of Tatum, stating, ‘the comeback will be greater than the setback,’ emphasizing their resilience despite the setback.
Tatum, who was having his best playoff performance of 2025, scored 42 points on 16 of 28 shooting with seven made 3-pointers in Game 4. He also recorded eight rebounds, four assists, and four steals, showcasing his impact on the court. However, the injury occurred as the Celtics were down, and Tatum immediately collapsed in pain after trying to plant on his right foot. The Madison Square Garden crowd showed their respect, applauding as he was helped off the court by Celtics staff and made his way to the locker room. MRI results confirmed the severity of the injury, necessitating surgery. Tatum, who was making his fourth straight All-NBA first team, had previously played a key role in the Celtics’ NBA Finals win over the Dallas Mavericks last season. The Celtics’ hopes of a back-to-back championship were dealt a blow with this loss, as they had fallen into a 2-0 hole in the Eastern Conference semifinals after losing Games 1 and 2 by 20-point margins. The loss in Game 4 has more ramifications than any elimination Game 5, and the team faces a significant challenge in overcoming this setback.
Despite the injury, the Celtics are determined to continue their fight in the playoffs. The team’s leadership and fans have rallied around Tatum, providing emotional and financial support for his recovery. The Boston Celtics have already begun planning for the future, with key players stepping up to fill the void left by Tatum’s absence. The team will need to adapt and rely on their depth as they prepare for the upcoming games. The loss of Tatum, who was a cornerstone of the Celtics’ success, will be a significant blow to the team’s chances of advancing further in the playoffs. However, the players and coaching staff remain focused on their goals and are working tirelessly to prepare for the next challenge. The Celtics’ resilience and determination are evident as they continue to support Tatum and look toward the future with hope.