Jayson Tatum exits Game 4 against the Knicks due to a late right leg injury

The Boston Celtics’ playoff hopes took a harsh hit when Jayson Tatum exited late in Game 4 against the New York Knicks with a serious right leg injury. This unforeseen setback came at a critical juncture, with the Celtics trailing 3-1 in the Eastern Conference semifinals. Tatum’s dominant 42-point performance showcased his clutch ability, but the injury overshadowed the night, leaving teammates and fans alike grappling with the implications.

Jayson Tatum’s late-game right leg injury: What really happened in Game 4 vs Knicks

Late in the fourth quarter, with the Celtics down by seven points, Tatum lunged for a loose ball and suddenly his right leg gave out in a non-contact play that instantly raised alarms. Unlike past injuries where he popped right back up—like his wrist issue during the first-round series—this time Tatum had to be carried off in a wheelchair, grimacing in visible pain and unable to put weight on his leg.

• Tatum’s injury occurred with about three minutes left in the game, a pivotal moment in a tight playoff series.
• Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla expressed deep concern, noting how rare it was to see Tatum stay down like this.
• An MRI was scheduled for Tuesday to determine the full extent of the damage.
• Tatum was already sidelined earlier this postseason due to a wrist injury but returned to lead Boston with a career-high playoff scoring night.

This injury doesn’t just put a damper on Boston’s Game 5 outlook; it throws the entire series into uncertainty. The Celtics, already battling the resilient Knicks, now face the daunting task of advancing without their prime scorer. The defensive schemes will have to adapt quickly, and players like Kristaps Porzingis now bear a heavier leadership burden to keep the Celtics' championship hopes alive.

Implications for Celtics' playoff run and roster depth

With Tatum’s injury looming large, the Celtics must reassess their lineup and strategy for the upcoming games. Here’s what’s critical moving forward:

• Increased responsibility for Kristaps Porzingis: Porzingis, the veteran center, acknowledged the emotional toll on the team but emphasized the need to push forward and play their best.
• Adjustments in offensive schemes: Without Tatum’s scoring prowess and playmaking, offensive sets will need to revolve around players like Jaylen Brown and emerging role players.
• Reliance on bench depth: Key role players wearing gear from brands like Nike, Under Armour, and Jordan Brand must step up, showcasing the impact of team synergy beyond stars.
• Physical and mental resilience: The Celtics are challenged to stay mentally tough, a trait essential for late playoff success, especially after losing a cornerstone player.

Boston’s ability to adapt quickly echoes similar recent setbacks across the NBA playoffs, such as the injury struggles faced by teams highlighted in this report. The league is witnessing an uptick in star absences testing team strategies.

Jayson Tatum’s Playoff Records and His Impact Before Injury

Even as the injury looms, it’s impossible to overlook the brilliant stretch Tatum delivered before limping off the court:

• 42 points scored in Game 4 – a playoff career-high displaying his offensive dominance against the Knicks.
• His contributions helped Boston stay competitive late into the game, a testament to his skill and tenacity.
• Tatum surpassed several milestones in previous games, edging closer to elite playoff company—a dangerous adversary when healthy.
• His Nike sneakers, a staple on the court, symbolize both his star status and cultural impact in the league.

The Celtics’ offense took a hit here, much like when other stars like Jimmy Butler faced playoff injuries significantly slowing their teams (read more). Tatum’s absence would require a collective lift from Boston's squad, including players endorsing brands like Adidas, Reebok, and Puma, reinforcing the pivotal role team depth plays in postseason runs.

Team and league-wide reactions to Tatum’s injury

Both Celtics players and their Knicks counterparts expressed sympathy and concern following the injury. Jaylen Brown candidly admitted that the team was “at a loss for words,” pointing out how much Tatum means to their success and to the league at large.

• Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla stressed the difficulty of the situation but emphasized the team’s resolve to battle on.
• Knicks players recognized the competitive edge Tatum brings to every game, offering respect even amid fierce rivalry.
• The basketball community noticed how injuries in 2025 are reshaping playoff expectations, with multiple star players sidelined due to various ailments—something discussed in this analysis of Kawhi Leonard’s injury.

The Celtics must now lean on their secondary weapons and rely on the resilience that has defined championship runs in this era. The stakes couldn’t be higher as Boston looks to stave off elimination and keep their title defense alive.